South African player was not 100% in the final due to injury
Monastir, Tunisia - March 8, 2023 - Kris Van Wyk of South Africa reached the final of the ITF 15k tournament in Monastir, Tunisia, on Saturday. Kris defeated Simakin of Russia in the semifinals, 7-5, 2-6, 6-3, but was not able to play 100% in the final.
Van Wyk was leading 2-1 in the first set when he began to feel pain in his forearm. He continued to play, but the injury worsened, and he was unable to serve at full power. He played to honour the final but he was not in good conditions.
Despite the injury, Van Wyk was pleased with his performance in the tournament. He won three matches in a row to reach the final.
"I'm happy with the way I played," Van Wyk said. "I was able to beat some good players, and I showed that I can compete at this level. I'm disappointed that I had to play not 100% in the final, but I'm looking forward to getting back on the court soon."
Van Wyk is currently ranked No. 431 in the ATP rankings. He is expected to move up in the rankings after his performance in Monastir.
Van Wyk will next compete in another 15k ITF tournament in Monastir.