South African rising star Zoe Kruger stormed back from a set down to beat Dutch fifth seed Suzan Lamens 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 and clinch her first ITF Pro title at the Tuks International on Sunday.

Kruger Delivers! 🙌

South African rising star @ZoeKrugerr wins her maiden @ITFTennis Pro title at the Tuks International.

The 19-year-old wild card defeated Dutch fifth seed Suzan Lamens 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 to seal the title.

Congrats, Zoe! 👏👏#TuksInternational pic.twitter.com/UUKIFYfvwv

— Tennis South Africa (@TennisSA) October 3, 2021

“I am extremely happy with my performance and result today, especially since it’s my first professional title,” said Kruger.

It was a stunning performance that showcased the potential that has long been spoken of Kruger in Tshwane, where she has been known as a child prodigy since the age of four.

“I actually had my first tennis lesson on court number 5 at Tuks tennis court, so it’s such an honour to win my first title here as well.”

The 19-year-old, who upset French top seed Tessah Andrianjafitrimo in the quarterfinals, made a slow start and dropped the opening set but produced an instant response in the second set, winning the set 6-4.

“I think I played very well, especially in the second set. I started to find my groove and rhythm, and the new balls helped a lot.”

Kruger did not let up in the third, surging to a 5-1 lead before Lamens fought back to 5-4. Kruger eventually managed to close out the victory 6-4.

“Thanks to my family and friends for coming to support, I really appreciate it so much.  I am really looking forward to the future. I am going to start playing several tournaments overseas,” added Kruger.

In the men’s event, Japanese third seed Rio Noguchi clinched the men’s singles title with a straight sets victory 6-3, 7-5 over Filip Peliwo of Canada.