TENNIS ace Ryan Peniston is determined to build on his encouraging start to the 2025 season.
Peniston, who is from Great Wakering, fought back from a set down to win the ITF M25 Loule final in Portugal last week.
And the 29-year-old was delighted to triumph having dug deep to get back on top.
“I was really pleased to come through the final and end up with a win as my opponent was playing some really good tennis,” said Peniston.
“He was a set and a break up and I had to dig deep to come back in the final.
“I’d played a lot of tennis and it was my third week in a row so the legs were starting to feel a bit heavy.
“But I managed to get the win which was pleasing.”
Peniston lost the first set 6-3 to Dutchman Chris Rodesch before fighting back to win the second 6-1.
Peniston then took the decider 6-3 to end another encouraging week on a high.
“This week was great for me as I feel like I got through some tough matches in tough conditions,” said the former Southend High School pupil.
“I was able to be the last one standing which was really good.
“I’m happy with the way things are going.”
Peniston endured a tough 2024 campaign after suffering a serious ankle injury which required surgery.
But Peniston’s form and fitness have seen him improve his world ranking by more than 100 places this time around.
And he remains hungry for more.
“I’m really happy with my year as I’ve been able to play a load of matches which last year I wasn’t able to,” said Peniston, who is currently 314 in the world.
“I’ve been trying to work hard in training and improve and I feel like that’s been working.
“But I want to keep on going and get even better results.”
Peniston has also reached an ATP Challenger semi-final in Hersonissos and finals at the M25 Vila Real de Santo Antonio and Lexus GB Pro Series Sunderland already this season.
But he will keep working hard in pursuit of more success and is currently enjoying training back in England.
“I’ve got a training block at home for a couple of weeks,” said Peniston.
“After that then I’m playing some tournaments in Egypt and China which I’m really looking forward to.
“I’m enjoying my tennis at the moment.”
But Peniston will again be trying to keep things simple.
“Hopefully, I can keep following and trusting my process,” said Peniston.
“If I can do that for the rest of the year that would be a success for me.”
