Khololwam Montsi ready to bring experience in Davis Cup World Group tie

The two sides last met in 2020, when Montsi was just 17 years old, with the European side claiming a 3-1 victory over South Africa in a World Group I tie in Zenica.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Montsi says six years later, he is wiser and hopes to bring his experience to what is expected to be a highly anticipated clash.

"I think now the difference is I'm more mature, I've learnt a lot more, I have more experience under my belt and I'm more prepared. It has been a long time since I've been on the team and you know, six years is a long time,” Montsi said. 

“I'm just very grateful to the team for selecting me today. To be able to play my first cup for South Africa as an adult now is a very special feeling."

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At the Davis Cup World Group II tie draw, South Africa’s No. 2 Montsi was pitted against Bosnia and Herzegovina’s No. 1, Damir Dzumhur.

Montsi says he is looking forward to testing himself against one of the best players in world tennis.

"I am very excited to play against him. Dzumhur is someone that I've watched a lot over the years on YouTube, on TV just watching all of these matches. So, I'm just very excited, I feel like a kid living his dream of getting to play against some of the best players in the world,” he added. 

“He's a former top 25 player in the world. It's gonna be exciting for me. Great player, I love a challenge, no pressure, I'm not someone who normally gets nervous. My parents have raised me to take every opportunity I get. Very excited, it's honestly a blessing and I hope we just have a great match and I can do my best."