PHILIPPINE Sports Commission-backed Marian Jade Capadocia easily beat her veteran rivals to clinch a spot in the main draw of the International Tennis Federation Women’s Circuit recently in Alakmaar, the Netherlands.
Capadocia, former Philippines’ No.1, defeated world-ranked No. 1225 American Caroline Dunleavy, 6-2, 6-2, in the first qualifying round before demolishing local bet Shura Poppe, 6-3, 6-0, in the final qualifying to make it to the main draw in this world ranking meet.
“Maganda po ang kondisyon ko, medyo ganado. Malakas sa service play ang kalaban, pero okey naman po at nakontrol ko ‘yung atake nila,” said the 23-year-old veteran SEA Games campaigner through her mother Teresita via Facebook message.
“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa PSC Board, sa pamumuno ni Chairman William Ramirez sa suporta at tiwalang ibinigay sa akin para makasali sa tournament,” added Capadocia, who is trying to gain at least 20 world ranking points.
The PSC bankrolled Capadocia’s participation in the ITF World Circuit after the Philippine Amateur Tennis Association refused to reinstate the former Arellano University standout, despite repeated appeals and pleas.
Philta dropped Capadocia in the National Team due to personal differences with secretary general Romeo Magat. The association is currently embroiled in a leadership dispute resulting in the withdrawal of support from major stakeholders, including businessmen-sportsman Jean Henri Lhuillier.
“Gustong-gusto ko pong maglaro sa National Team, pero talagang ayaw nila akong ibalik. Kahit tryouts okey sa akin, pero wala silang pakialam,” said Capadocia.
In the first round of the Alkmaar championship set to start on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila), Capadocia faces Nikki Redelijk of the United States.
From the Netherlands, Capadocia will head to the ITF Circuit in Haan, Belgium. After the ITF sojourn, she will join fellow students to represent her country and Arellano University in the prestigious World University Games in Taipei, Taiwan on Aug. 19 to 30.
