Two of Somerset West’s most decorated tennis veterans have returned from the SA Nationals in Gauteng with gold around their necks, proving that in the game of life and tennis, the “comeback” is the greatest play of all.
Denley Richards (82) and Archie Rudman (70) both secured top honours in their respective age categories, further cementing their status as legends in the Tennis South Africa Masters division.
The real story, however, began 54 years ago. In 1972, a 28-year-old Richards, then a senior Eastern Province provincial player, faced off against a 16-year-old Rudman.
After that match, the two went their separate ways, each excelling in the sport on different stages.
Through a stroke of luck, the two reconnected in Somerset West following Rudman’s retirement 13 years ago. Since then, they have become inseparable practice partners, mentors and friends.
Today, they are both national champions and ranked number one in South Africa for their age groups.
For Richards, this victory marks his fourth national title in the 80-plus age group. His journey began at age 10, eventually taking him to the world stage. He’s represented SA eight times in world championships across India, the USA and Europe and once reached a world ranking of third in the 55-plus category.
Entering as the number two seed, Richards defeated the top seed to claim his latest title.
“I am now 82 and still enjoying it,” Richards declares. “Tennis is about perseverance; it’s about the enjoyment and the friends you make along the way.”
Rudman’s victory in the 70-plus category was a testament to his grit. Despite battling recent injuries and setbacks, he dominated the tournament. He has previously won three singles titles and two doubles titles at nationals, and has similarly travelled the world winning tennis titles in Europe.
“It was a great relief to finish and win the SA nationals two weeks ago,” says Rudman. “Life is like tennis – it builds character. You always have to come back from challenges and adversity.
“It’s about never giving up, having a vision and seeing it through no matter what. We only train to play competitively now, and this win really boosts that confidence.”
The duo attribute their longevity and success to three fundamental principles: friendship, mentorship and camaraderie.
“We advise each other and understand that our mutual passion transcends into everyday lessons in life,” they say.
The two have witnessed the complete transformation of the sport. They began their careers in the era of heavy wooden rackets and white clothing; today they use cutting-edge carbon-fiber technology and advanced stringing. “We developed as the equipment got better,” they say.
But while the rackets are now lighter and the strings are tighter, their passion for the game remains as strong as it was in 1972.
Both are seeded number 1 in their age categories and have pledged to continue playing – and excelling – for the foreseeable future.
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