By Zimbabwe Olympic Committee Media
Zimbabwe’s top tennis duo Benjamin Lock and Courtney Lock have set their sights firmly on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games after narrowly missing out on qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The brothers endured heartbreak in their quest for Paris. Benjamin fell just short in the singles race despite winning silver at the 2023 African Games, where only gold would have secured automatic qualification. In doubles, the pair also agonisingly missed the cut by just one spot.
Now, the focus has shifted fully to LA28, with both players determined to turn past disappointment into motivation.
“We are doing everything we can to try and qualify for the LA Olympics,” Courtney said. “We were one spot out of making it to Paris in the doubles, Benjy was one spot out in the singles, so yeah it’s the main focus for us.”
Courtney is set to continue the qualification push on the international circuit, with upcoming tournaments in China forming part of his build-up.
“I am going to China to play in a few tournaments. It’s been a busy start to the season and I’m looking forward to the Davis Cup coming up,” he added.
Meanwhile, Benjamin is currently based in Zimbabwe as he ramps up preparations for the season. His schedule includes regional tournaments before heading to the United States to compete at a higher level.
“I will be training in Zimbabwe, doing my pre-season here and playing some tournaments in Southern Africa, then I will head over to the States,” said Benjamin. “Everything points to the Olympics, so I’m hoping for good results.”
After struggling with injury setbacks last year, Benjamin says he is now fully fit and ready to compete.
“I didn’t get to play a lot of tennis last year because I had an injury, but I worked so hard on my rehab. I’m 100 percent fit now and ready to play. I am motivated and fired up.”
In a major boost to his Olympic ambitions, Benjamin is among the nine athletes benefiting from the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee LA28 Olympic Solidarity Scholarship programme, which is designed to support elite athletes on their road to the Games.
The Zimbabwe Olympic Committee is also backing both brothers in their bid to secure qualification, as Zimbabwe looks to strengthen its tennis representation on the Olympic stage.
With renewed determination and structured support, the Lock brothers are now fully focused on ensuring that their Olympic dream becomes a reality in Los Angeles.