The Malagasy tennis world is in mourning following the passing of Andriamangavololona Rakotoniaina, known to enthusiasts as Manga Rakotoniaina, this past Saturday. An iconic figure in sports and specifically in the Haute Matsiatra League tennis community, the father of six would have turned seventy-three on September 1st.
“He practiced several disciplines, including pétanque and rallying, and was the first to teach chess at the Alliance Française in Fianarantsoa. He was ranked in the top 10 in Madagascar. He was a loving father and very serious in everything he undertook. His departure leaves a great void,” shared his son, Davida Rakotoniaina.
For decades, he dedicated his energy and passion to the development of tennis in his region and beyond, leaving a profound human and sporting legacy. As the iconic president of the Haute Matsiatra League for many years, he became an essential face of the discipline, admired for his availability, kindness, and passion.
For many players and officials, Manga represented an era—a time when Malagasy tennis experienced a tremendous boom. Hary Manohisoa Andriantefihasina, president of the Malagasy Tennis Federation, stated, “Malagasy tennis loses a ‘Raiamandreny’ (elder/mentor). One of these iconic leaders will leave an immense void.”
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-17 06:38:33 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/disparition-le-tennis-pleure-manga.html