Kenya will need to regroup and rethink its approach after failing to secure promotion from Africa Group IV to Group III at the 2025 Davis Cup tournament, held from June 11–14 in Luanda, Angola.
Despite entering the competition with high expectations, Coach Peter Rakuom’s team struggled to meet their goal and found themselves battling to avoid relegation.
They ultimately secured their place in Group IV with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Mauritius in a relegation play-off semi-final at Kikuxi Villas Tennis Academy.
Albert Njogu, coming off a Uganda Open singles title win last month, opened the tie on a sour note for Kenya, falling 3–6, 7–5, 2–6 to Mauritius’ Daniel Bazu.
However, USA-based Kael Shah—reigning Kenya Open champion—kept Kenya alive with a dominant 6–3, 6–2 win over Rushil Seewoosurrun.
In the deciding doubles match, Coach Rakuom paired Shah with veteran Ismael Changawa.
The duo delivered under pressure, defeating Mauritius’ Anthony Kwok Yin Siong Yen and his partner 6–3, 6–2 to ensure Kenya remains in Group IV for another year.
Elsewhere, Côte d’Ivoire and Burundi secured promotion to Group III following impressive campaigns.
Côte d’Ivoire, relegated last year, bounced back strongly, sealing their spot with a 2–0 win over DR Congo.
Burundi also impressed, overturning a deficit to beat Ghana 2–1 and claim the second promotion slot—just three years after making their Davis Cup debut in 2022.
Meanwhile, Gabon and Mauritius, who were promoted to Group IV for the 2025 season, have been relegated to Group V after finishing last in their groups.
Looking ahead to 2026, Group IV will comprise Kenya, Ghana, DR Congo, and hosts Angola, alongside two teams relegated from Group III and two promoted from Group V.
The 2025 Group III event is scheduled for August in Zimbabwe and will feature Algeria, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, and the hosts.
Having competed in the Davis Cup since 1974, Kenya must now reassess its strategies after a challenging outing in Luanda, with hopes of reigniting their promotion push next year.
