Par Rachel Barrett-Trangmar
At the age of eighteen, Caya Cagan is already showing great potential as a tennis player. Her ever-increasing success may soon have her playing on the world tennis circuit.
What initially inspired you to play tennis?
I started playing tennis at the age of four when my pre-school offered it as an extracurricular activity. I immediately developed an ever-increasing interest and enthusiasm for this sport.
How do you learn and practise your tennis skills?
When I first started playing tennis I was taught in a group as well as one-on-one, and by different coaches. I then went to high school in Bordeaux where I continued to train with a group of fellow tennis players. On returning to the French Caribbean, I underwent more intensive one-on-one training at the St François tennis club in Guadeloupe, where I was awarded my license by the French Tennis Federation, allowing me to play competitively. I now travel to different regions for the purpose of competing, where I am taught by a variety of coaches.
How do you balance tennis with the rest of your life?
Tennis has always been a big part of my life; nevertheless I gained good results in my Baccalaureate exams last year, despite spending time away. I intend to further my studies this September 2024, to specialise in foreign languages before returning to play tennis full-time.
Do you play tennis competitively?
I have participated in many different tennis competitions since the age of twelve. I have won regional championships in the French Caribbean, as well as those in French Guiana and mainland France. In fact, in a few weeks I will be flying back to France to defend my ranking and hopefully move upwards.
Are there any particular tennis players that you admire?
Starting with male tennis players, Roger Federer is undoubtedly my favourite, and a great one to watch as he plays with a lot of charisma and elegance, which are rare qualities. My next favourite is Gaël Monfils for his idiosyncratic combativeness – and also the fact that he comes from the French Caribbean. Finally, I find Nick Kyrgios truly unique and authentic, and I believe there can be no one else like him.
My favourite female player is Serena, Williams whom I consider to be the queen of tennis and is the reason why I love tennis so much. Her competitiveness is noteworthy. I would also like to add Emma Raducanu, simply because I admire her distinctive playing style.
What are your goals in the tennis world?/span>
My principal objective is to improve my ranking within the next two years, which will allow me to play in world renowned tournaments. I would also like to go to university in the United States – to augment my academic studies, while improving my tennis skills. And my ultimate goal is to teach tennis, but not straight away.
Can you tell me about life as a professional tennis player?
The life of a tennis player can be non-stop, depending on your ranking and where you are in the tennis season. I once had to play four matches in one day during a summer tournament! And this summer I am scheduled to play a dozen tournaments in a month and a half – it is going to be tough!
What is your connection with St Barts?
St Barts is my home where I spent the first thirteen years of my life and when my life began in the tennis world. I essentially represent the island of Guadeloupe, where I gained my licence, but I would still like St Barts to be recognised for its sporting strengths, particularly its female tennis players.
What message would you like to share with the readers of Coccoloba?
I feel grateful that the readers of Coccoloba have taken time to become better acquainted with me and my tennis career. Thank you for your support. I would also like to thank Coccoloba magazine for giving me the opportunity to share my story with others.
