Rising tennis star, Jizelle Sibai, has taken on the world’s best young talent at the Junior 14 and Under Wimbledon Championships. The Year 8 Meriden student was among three Australian players selected to compete at the Junior Grand Slam tournament. Jizelle followed in the footsteps of Year 9 Meriden student, Giselle Guillen, who competed in the inaugural 14 and Under Wimbledon tournament in 2022 and Violet Apisah (Class of 2018) who competed at Wimbledon in 2017 and 2018.
After months of preparation and rigorous training with Meriden’s tennis coaches, Jizelle competed in a round-robin event at the esteemed All England Club, where she gave her all on the court during five matches, showcasing her skills, drive and determination.
Over the five-day tournament, Jizelle connected with fellow aspiring players from across the globe and gained insight into the potential future that awaits her as a professional tennis player.
“Wimbledon is such a prestigious event. I feel honoured to have experienced this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Jizelle.
Jizelle embraced the full Wimbledon experience and said she is grateful to have played tennis on the famed grass courts on which many of her heroes have competed.
“I have always been inspired by these players and now I have played on the same courts as them – it feels amazing,” she said.
“I found competing on grass courts tricky at the beginning. However, once I found my groove, I found it suited my game style.”
Jizelle, who has been playing tennis for over nine years, said there is a lot to love about tennis.
“I love competing. I feel like it brings out the best in me when I play. I have grown up playing tennis with my friends and now I get to travel with them to compete. I am hoping this is just the beginning of my tennis journey,” she said.
Thirty-two students from thirteen nations competed at the 14 and Under Championships. Jizelle was selected to represent her country after her strong performance at the Margaret Court Cup tournament in January.
Congratulations, Jizelle, on your success at Wimbledon. Your determination to succeed and achieve excellence is inspiring.
Like Violet before them, both Jizelle and Giselle are supported by Meriden’s Olympus Program, which provides support to student-athletes in achieving their academic and sporting dreams.
