After leading Madagascar back to Group IV of the Davis Cup, captain Rija Rajaobelina reflects on the behind-the-scenes of a campaign marked by injuries, unforeseen events, and unwavering solidarity.
Captain Rija Rajaobelina, you stated that this victory is much bigger than just the five players. Why?
Because it is the result of collective work. We see the players on the court, but behind them are the Federation, the president, the national technical direction, the secretaries-general, the coaches, the twelve pre-selected players, the families, and everyone who supported us. This promotion to Group IV belongs to the entire Malagasy tennis family.
Before the competition began, you told your wife, ‘Tacha, I’m scared.’ How did you manage to turn that doubt into strength?
The three months of preparation were very grueling. We faced a series of injuries, administrative setbacks, and unexpected issues. At one point, I realized I had to stop thinking about everything that could go wrong. I chose to fully live this adventure with the players and enjoy the privilege of representing Madagascar. This mindset allowed us to move forward one day at a time.
From the moment you were appointed, you insisted on the concept of reconstruction. What did you want to change?
I didn’t just want to build a team capable of reaching Group IV. I wanted to rebuild an identity. A national team must operate with clear criteria, shared values, and a long-term vision. A promotion without foundations can remain just a simple feat. We wanted to build something sustainable.
What was the most difficult challenge to overcome during this campaign?
It wasn’t one particular event, but the accumulation of them. The injuries to Valentin and Antso, Tovonirina’s non-qualification due to administrative reasons, housing problems, power outages, lost keys, sleeping without air conditioning… Each time, the group refused to complain. This ability to adapt forged our character.
Now that Madagascar is back in Group IV, what is the next challenge?
Promotion is not an end in itself. Now that we are in Group IV, the next step for this team is to support the individual projects of young players like Valentin, Tovonirina, Mirija, and Mahery; to encourage veteran players like Antso and Jean Jacques to balance professional life, family constraints, and their passion for competition; the same goes for Lucas, who just started coaching this year; to accelerate the passport acquisition for Johan; and to analyze the cases of our champions in the United States, Toky Ranaivo and Dylan Andrianaly, to facilitate their travel.
Personally, as part of the ‘Lanja Miakatra’ project, we will support part of the two projects for Valentin and Tovonirina. Regarding the veterans, we will study an ‘expatriate exchange’ project that will kill three birds with one stone: keep the veterans motivated, train local staff and young players, and provide visibility for sponsors.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-01 06:09:11 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/tennis-coupe-davis-2026-rija.html