King has royal touch on court

Darian King along with Haydn Lewis, will take the leading role in tomorrow’s Americas Davis Cup Group 2 tie against Paraguay. (Kenmore Bynoe)

Thu, February 09, 2012 - 12:01 AM

Barbados will be opposing Paraguay in a Davis Cup Group 2 tennis tie at the National Tennis Centre, Wildey, starting tomorrow and continuing on Saturday and Sunday.

Today, NATIONSPORT profiles two of the Barbados players, Haydn Lewis and Darian King. Profiles of the other two Barbados players, Seanon Williams and Anthony Marshall, will be published tomorrow.

DARIAN KING

This rising star is an exceptionally talented baseliner with no apparent weaknesses.

King is equally potent and consistent from his forehand and backhand wing which together with his flawless footwork, makes it seem as if his opponents are playing against three of him at the same time.

His exceptional return of serve, lightning quick movement around the court, outstanding volleys and pin-point accuracy makes Barbados’ No. 1 player a force to be reckoned with at any level anywhere in the world.

Age: 19

Right-handed player, two-handed backhand.

Highest singles rank: 700

Current singles rank: 723

Highest doubles rank: 547

Current doubles rank: 547

Parents: Wesley King, the late Myrna King

Siblings: Amory King 28, Christopher King 21, Brian King 27.

Schools: Wilkie Cumberbatch, The Lodge School

Years playing tennis: 10

Hobbies: tennis, football

Role model: Jo Wilfried Tsonga