CENTURION, March 3, 2026 (Media Release)

The momentum from the Rise Irene Open has carried seamlessly into the Rise Centurion Open, with five Southern Africans securing their places in the second round of the ATP Challenger tournament on Tuesday.

After four locals reached the second round of the Rise Irene Open last week, another impressive showing from the Southern African contingent highlighted the growing strength of tennis in the region and provided local fans with plenty to cheer about.

The biggest upset of the day came from Kholo Montsi, who battled back from a set down to eliminate third seed Calvin Hemery 3-6, 6-3, 7-6, delivering a statement victory and one of the standout performances of the opening round. Joining Kholo in the second round are Southern Africans Alec Beckley, Philip Henning, Devin Badenhorst and Connor van Schalkwyk, continuing an encouraging week for local tennis at the ATP Challenger event:

● Phillip Henning ensured South African hopes remained strong in the draw, cruising past qualifier Orel Kimhi 6-2, 6-2 in a confident opening-round performance.

● Devin Badenhorst maintained the momentum for the home contingent, delivering a confident display to defeat qualifier Oscar Weightman 6-3, 6-4 and secure his place in the next round.

● South African qualifier Alec Beckley added his name to the list of local winners, dispatching Dominik Palan 6-3, 6-3 in straight sets.

● Continuing a memorable day for the Southern African contingent, wildcards Connor van Schalkwyk and Kholo Montsi pulled off an impressive doubles upset, overcoming fourth seeds Luca Castelnuovo and Jeffrey Chuan En Hsu 5-7, 6-4, 10-6 in a thrilling encounter.

“To have five South Africans progress to the second round of the singles draw, alongside wins against higher-ranked international opponents, is exactly what these tournaments are designed to achieve,” said Tournament Director John-Laffnie de Jager.

“It reflects the depth of talent we have in South Africa and the importance of giving our players the opportunity to compete at this level on home soil.”

De Jager added that South African tennis is in an exciting phase of growth. “The results we’re seeing this week are not by chance – they are the product of hard work, commitment, and a growing belief among our players that they can compete with and beat some of the best on the ATP Challenger Tour. We are proud to provide a platform where that potential can be showcased.”