Henning and South African Pair Complete Clean Sweep at Centre Court Series
21 July 2025South African Phillip Henning, the number‑one seed, secured his third consecutive men’s singles title at the Curro Centre Court Series in Hillcrest. Despite rain delays, Henning overcame compatriot Marc van der Merwe 6‑3, 6‑3 in the final. The match featured powerful baseline rallies and multiple service breaks before Henning claimed victory.
‘I’ve had an unreal three weeks and to win each time is the stuff of dreams,’ said Henning. ‘My goal is to work on securing good ranking points going forward, and credit to Marc for a great final. Despite the scoreline, he made me work hard, and as a qualifier he has been terrific - it is only a matter of time before he wins a series.’
Marc, Henning’s practice partner and qualifier, reflected on the challenge: ‘Phillip is a big player, and I was too hesitant in going forward. I should have attacked the net more and applied more pressure as his movement and court coverage is incredible. I will be back though for another crack at the win.’
Men’s Doubles Excellence
Luc Koenig and Devon Badenhorst, seeded third, claimed the men’s doubles title with a 6‑1, 6‑4 win over the Henning brothers. Their performance marked three consecutive doubles titles in the series.
Women’s Singles Battle
Kira Pavlova defeated fellow Russian Polina Leykina in a 2.5‑hour final, winning 6‑4, 2‑6, 6‑2. After falling behind 0‑2 in the deciding set, Kira rallied to take control. She commented: ‘It was tough and Polina brings a unique style to the game. I was battling in the second set but wanted to go one step better than last week.’ Polina praised her run: ‘To get to the final is special and takes determination, and although I lost, it was a tough match and I was happy to make the final and give it my best effort.’
Women’s Doubles Result
Heike van Vuuren (SA) and Victoria Mulville (USA) clinched the women’s doubles title, defeating the French top seeds 6‑4, 6‑4.
Series Wrap and Future Pathways
The three‑week Centre Court Series concluded with both singles and doubles honours captured by South Africans in the men's draws. CEO Cobus Loubser emphasised the series’ developmental impact: ‘We believe in creating opportunities for the talent we have and for providing a stepping stone for big and real dreams. Some of our past pupils are playing in these series and continuing to play overseas, inspiring those behind them to believe and never give up.’
Week 3 Champions
- Men’s Singles: Phillip Henning (RSA)
- Women’s Singles: Kira Pavlova (RUS)
- Men’s Doubles: Luc Koenig / Devon Badenhorst (RSA)
- Women’s Doubles: Heike van Vuuren (SA) / Victoria Mulville (USA)
Curro Centre Court continues to elevate South African talent, offering critical ATP and WTA ranking point opportunities and a platform for emerging players.