Cara’s Road to Stardom

Sport
CARA Black, Zimbabwe’s tennis ace and world number one doubles player, has gradually achieved legendary status in her country.

CARA Black, Zimbabwe’s tennis ace and world number one doubles player, has gradually achieved legendary status in her country.

The last five years have particularly been outstanding for Black. She won her first Wimbledon title in 2004, partnering Australian Rennae Stubbs.

In 2005, Cara achieved her highest ranking, rising to number one in the world after winning the doubles at the Zurich Open with Stubbs.

In 2007 Cara enjoyed her most successful calendar year. With new partner, South African turned American Liezel Huber, they triumphed in the Australian Open and Wimbledon.

Previously, Cara had partnered brother Wayne to win the mixed doubles at the 2002 French Open and 2004 Wimbledon.

Like wine, she has got better with age. She won the US Open with Huber in 2008 before wrapping up the mixed doubles with Leander Paes of India.

Showing no sign of slowing down, the 30-year-old has started 2010 on a bright note again on a tour of Australasia. With Huber they scooped the ASB Auckland in New Zealand on January 9, and then the $31 000 Sydney International in Australia.

Cara’s career has been rewarding financially. She has earned nearly US$6 million in her career. She has 63 titles to her name, and still counting!

The Harare-born star is now looking ahead to add another feather in her cap in the Aussie Open, which began this week.

 

Ashley Marimo