Fil-German makes impression in Manila

Anja Vanessa Peter is the only German participating in the girls’ division of the ongoing 14th Mitsubishi Lancer International Junior Tennis Championships.

But the 14-year-old Anja, currently ranked No. 349 in the world, has Filipino blood and has potential for the national team. "A lot of people find it hard to believe when I talk in Tagalog," said Anja, who speaks fluent German and English and a little French, which is taught in school. "I always enjoy my visit here in the Philippines. I stay with my mother’s relatives in Antipolo and I go to the malls," said the 5-foot-7 Anja, an only child.

Anja was born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia where her parents met. Her mother, Florita Anda, who hails from Tacloban, Leyte, now works as a check-in agent at the Frankfurt airport while her father is a commercial businessman.

This is the second time that Anja is playing in the Mitsubishi tournament, which has been upgraded to a Group 1 category. "My problem was the weather condition last year. I lost in the first round. Hopefully, I’ll do better this time. I can handle the weather now," said Anja, who has a solid forehand. She learned tennis from her parents at the age of six.

Anja’s only exposure before the Mitsubishi netfest was national tournaments in Germany and the ITF Junior Circuits in Cyprus (semis), Tunisia, Ireland (semis), Great Britain, Thailand and Sweden. Anja’s career highlight was a runner-up finish in the German Championships two years ago.

She was champion of the European Tennis Association tournament in 2000. Anja also had a stint in the Milo Cup, her first tournament in the Philippines, two years ago and won the 16-under title.

"I always give my best in every game. I have a good forehand and my best asset is my endurance. I can play three sets," said Anja who admires Daniela Hantuchova’s aggressiveness on court.

The Philippine Tennis Association would not have a problem getting the services of Anja for the national team. She holds a dual citizenship.