Zimbabwe Davis Cup tennis player Mlandeli Ndlela recounted a harrowing trip to Egypt last week to play an ITF Futures event. The tournament was cancelled at the last minute because of violence, and the airline also lost Ndlela's luggage.
"Everything was just chaotic,” he told All Africa. "I had to buy some new clothes and sporting equipment as I had enough cash on me. Violence was already starting, but there was too much security at the airport and Egypt-Tennis Federation immediately took us to the match venue in Giza where the tournament was to begin on Saturday. Security was tight at the venue and the hotel owner assured us that we would be safe. He also asked for more security personnel. On Sunday violence had escalated and the tournament was cancelled. Everyone was now afraid, as internet and phones were not working. I could not communicate with my parents, but I managed to get in touch with a family friend."
Ndlela eventually caught a flight to Dubai and then was able to connect to another flight back home.—Matthew Cronin