Senegal President Macky Sall (L) stands with Sengal Captain Kalidou Koubaly holding the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) trophy upon Sengal arrval in Dakar on February 7, 2022. - Senegal's President Macky Sall declared Monday a public holiday to celebrate the national football team's first ever African Cup of Nations crown following their victory against Egypt, public television announced. (Photo by SEYLLOU / AFP)
Senegal has celebrated a landmark achievement in African tennis, securing the gold medal in the Davis Cup Group III Africa tournament and earning a place in the World Group II playoffs scheduled for early 2026.
The tournament took place in Harare, Zimbabwe, from 11 to 16 August 2025.
Despite a narrow defeat against Nigeria on the final day, losing 1-2, Senegal topped the standings with four points and nine match victories, edging out Namibia on the basis of matches won.
The triumph marks a continuation of Senegal’s impressive upward trajectory in continental tennis, following their Group IV victory in Luanda, Angola, in July 2024.
Led by captain Yannick Languina, the Senegalese squad comprised Seydina André, Nicolas Jadoun, Hassimiyou Dieng, and Zoheir Fardoun.
Seydina André emerged as a standout performer, securing a crucial win over Nigeria with a 6-1, 6-4 scoreline. “Our cohesion and determination throughout the tournament have been our greatest strengths,” Languina remarked after the final match, highlighting the team’s unity and focus.
The victory not only delivers the gold medal but also propels Senegal into the World Group II play-offs, a step that brings the Lions closer to competing at the higher echelons of global team tennis.
The venue for the playoffs will either be in Dakar or in the country of their assigned opponent, pending the official draw.
Observers have praised Senegal’s strategic gameplay and resilience throughout the week-long event, noting that the team’s rising profile reflects growing investment in tennis infrastructure and talent development within the country.
“This success is a testament to the players’ dedication and to the support they have received from the federation and national sports authorities,” said a local tennis analyst.
Looking ahead, Senegal’s tennis squad is preparing for the next challenge with optimism, aiming to translate their continental dominance into a strong showing on the world stage. The Lions’ ascent underscores the potential for African nations to make a significant impact in international tennis, blending technical skill with disciplined teamwork.
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