(From left) Tan Lin Xin, Belinda Chai Wei Xin, Aslina Chua An Ping, Linda Liong Ting Ting and Alia Azman.
KUCHING: Sarawak Sukma XVIII tennis team created history today (July 25) by winning the gold medal for the women’s team event held at Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association (SLTA) tennis centre here.
The team emerged as the champions with a score of 2-1 after going up against Terengganu in the finals.
The Sarawak women’s tennis team was powered by Tan Lin Xin and Aslina Chua An Ping in the first and second singles, respectively. Meanwhile, Belinda Chai Wei Xin and Linda Liong Ting Ting played in the first doubles.
“Aslina, our leading team member sealed the deciding second doubles to make a 1-1 tie with Terengganu.
“She played flawlessly to beat a strong up and coming opponent. Linda and Belinda secured the deciding doubles with a comfortable win.
“The women’s team not only managed to grab gold, but they have created history in the team event,” said head coach Deen Hesham.
Deen pointed out that the preparation for the finals has been ongoing for the past two years.
“Aslina, Linda and Belinda were under my mentorship at the national academy for the past three to four years,” he revealed.
Aslina, who is now furthering her studies at Michigan State University, USA also plays for the university’s tennis team.
Deen hopes that the achievement will spur young talents to take up the sport, as it creates many opportunities.
“This include gaining scholarships to further their studies in the USA to enhance their experience and exposure.
“We have many talents in Sarawak waiting to be tapped. I hope that we will continue to progress in tennis for the betterment of the state, especially these young talents,” he added.
After the finals, the state team have five more events to compete in, and Deen hopes that they will also secure more gold medals in the individual events.