Bienvenu Bolangi has become the first Congolese player to enter the ATP rankings, marking a milestone for tennis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The 25-year-old earned his place in the professional rankings after two victories at a tournament in the neighbouring Republic of Congo.

At Cercle Elaïs, a tennis club in Kinshasa's Gombe district, Bolangi moved quietly through a morning training session on May 26, repeating baseline drills and serve routines with measured focus.

Ranked 1,565th in the world, Bolangi knows he still has a long way to go. But he remains focused on improving and establishing himself on the international circuit.

"My biggest dream is to play in the Roland Garros qualifiers, win a round and become the first Congolese player to compete there," he said.

Born in Goma, in North Kivu province, Bolangi built his career largely away from the spotlight. Before entering the ATP rankings, he had already collected more than 20 titles across various competitions.

We Act de Rawbank

His journey has also been shaped by difficult moments, including the capture of Goma by M23 rebels in January 2025, which disrupted his routine and forced him to adapt. Like many athletes facing instability, he chose to continue pursuing his ambitions.

After that period, he spent time in Europe, where he worked to better structure his career and gain access to higher-level tournaments. The move brought him closer to the professional circuit.

He later competed in his first professional tournament in Angola. He lost in the opening round. The result was modest, but he drew lessons from it for his continued progress.

His entry into the ATP rankings represents more than a personal achievement. It marks an important step for Congolese tennis, a sport that is still developing in the country but showing growing potential.

As an ambassador for Rawbank's We Act programme, Bolangi is also active off the court. He encourages young people to believe in their ambitions and develop their skills.

"Every young person with a dream in entrepreneurship or in sports, I invite them to join the programme to bring their projects to life," he said, convinced that hard work and opportunity can change lives.

Ronsard Luabeya