RG Junior wild-card by Longines: 'Do Brasil!'

Could these be the “Guga” Kuertens of the future? The Brazilians shone at the fifth edition of the Roland‑Garros Junior Wild-Card by Longines competition at Stade Roland-Garros this sunny Saturday. The samba do Brasil began with the girls: Ana Paula Cavalcante Lopes Melilo, 17 years old, defeated China's Xue Cao 7-6 6-2, then Bhamidipaty Shrivalli Rashmikaa 7-5 6-4.

Smiling on court, she said, “I don’t really know what to feel… But I’m very happy, of course! This has been my favourite Grand Slam since I was a child, so it’s a dream for me to play at Roland‑Garros!”

With a flawless game and a good dash of grit, Melilo has got what it takes to excel on clay. She revealed a preference for a certain Roland‑Garros 2016 champion: “I’m a fan of Novak Djokovic – he’s a warrior. I try to take inspiration from his tennis. I also like Ana Ivanovic and Dominika Cibulkova – the latter because she plays a bit like me, with lots of intensity.”

Clocking up experience

The South American campaign continued this afternoon on Court No.6. Seventeen-year-old Reyes racked up decisive victories over India’s Siddhant Banthia 6-3 6-3 and China’s Xinmu Zhou 6-4, 6-2, concluding with a superb forehand that hit the line.

“I feel much more relaxed now,” said the young left-hander. “I was a bit stressed this morning. Now I can enjoy myself and clock up as much experience as possible.”

The Brazilians have been a regular feature in the boys’ tournament – they have won three of the four tournaments they have played in.

The prize giving ceremony, which takes place this Thursday on Court Philippe-Chatrier, will be attended by the presidents of Longines and the FFT. The winners not only take home a trophy – they also earn the right to take part in the main draw of the French Open juniors tournament, and to join the team of practice partners. It offers them the perfect chance to keep playing on this precious piece of Parisian clay.