Home court ‘definitely a bigger motivator’ says Genovese

Since Carol Curmi’s first Gold medal in tennis back in 1987, Malta has achieved five more to this day. Now, the excitement of tennis comes to Malta’s courts this month as the country’s best serve again with hopes of even better results.

Malta stalwart Elaine Genovese, who won her first GSSE medal at the 2009 Games, when she won Bronze at the women’s doubles event in Cyprus, will be one of the more experienced players. Looking to add to her tally, and possibly bettering it this time around, Genovese believes playing at home will be an added benefit to her game.

“It will definitely be a bigger motivator to play at home in front of my friends and family,” Genovese explained.

“It’s normal to feel a bit more pressure because we want to do well but I will consider it as any other tournament where I will give me 100% no matter the circumstances.”

Genovese was part of the Malta women’s team which took part in the Billie Jean King Cup in Portugal in April where they managed to remain in their group after beating South Africa in a playoff. Genovese, together with Francesca Curmi, both won their matches and the former believes the experience will be a boost for this month’s Games.

“I did have a couple of good wins in singles which will definitely serve as a confidence boost for the rest of the season but more importantly for the games,” she said while emphasising that the group’s dynamic makes her proud.

“We are used to traveling and playing the same tournaments together especially myself and Francesca. We are a good team on and off the court and I’m very proud to be part of it.”

With new and upcoming players looking up to Genovese as one of the most successful tennis players in Malta, she has set high expectations for Malta ahead of the Games.

“We definitely have a lot of talent coming up and I feel this is the strongest team I have ever had during my tennis career,” she claimed.

“I expect everyone, including myself, to do their best and rise up to the occasion.”