Jamaica’s rising tennis star, 15-year old Jade Fearon, is bursting with confidence after a sensational performance at the All-Jamaica Tennis Tournament at the Eric Bell National Tennis Centre in Kingston last weekend.
Fearon, a Mount Alvernia High student, was simply unstoppable, winning in the girls’ under-16 and 18 division, storming her way through six matches.
“I was really driven to win especially after my U16 final, and my dad said I had the chance to win two championships. While I was playing, I was really looking into myself and digging deep and just trying to overcome any challenges I had during the match,” said Fearon.
The youngster outplayed older opponents and stamped her authority on the tournament, held December 13-20. In the U16 final she defeated Xenya Miller-Brown 7-5, 6-0, and Savannah Taylor in the U18 finals 6-4, 3-6, 6-1.
Despite her challenges in training, Fearon said she practised diligently to get ready for the tournament.
“After school, I would go to the courts and play with anyone that was on the court to get as much practice in before the tournament,” said Fearon.
Earlier this year, Fearon was selected among 10 outstanding students in western Jamaica for the Jill Stewart MoBay City Run – Champions of the West, recognising excellence both on and off the court.
According to Fearon, she was introduced to tennis by her grandmother at an early age. With the zeal to dominate, Fearon aims on going to the highest level.
“I started playing at age six but stopped at age seven, then I started again at age 10 during COVID-19. I for sure want to go to Division 1. I want to go further in the International Tennis Federation and Universal Tennis Ratings. I want to just win as many tournaments as possible, especially the major ones,” added Fearon.
With her confidence soaring and her game peaking at the right time, Fearon is quickly emerging as one of Jamaica’s brightest tennis prospects and she’s showing no signs of slowing down.
Asked about her passion for tennis, Fearon said it keeps her calm.
“I am relaxed whenever I play. Especially for me when I am frustrated, I can always play tennis. I use it to release any stress,” said Fearon.
The aspiring tennis professional said her biggest motivation is her father.
“My dad is always encouraging and motivating me. He watches my matches when he can, takes me to tennis every day, and buys all my equipment,” said Fearon.
