A Basingstoke teenager is preparing to step into the world of professional tennis after a string of impressive victories in regional tournaments.

Hayden Cummings, 15, who lives in Brighton Hill, has emerged as a rising star after a standout performance at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight County Championships.

In the past week, Hayden secured titles in the men's singles, U16 singles, and U16 doubles to make his mark as one of the top young talents in the region.

A member of Waverley Lawn Tennis Club, Hayden is also coached in North London by Ryan Jones, who trains British tennis professional Jack Draper.

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Hayden Cummings is hoping to become a full-time tennis player next year (Image: Newsquest) Hayden is hoping to follow the steps of Draper, who marched into the semi-final of the US Open this week.

A Year 11 student at Cranbourne School, Hayden was also recently appointed as one of the school's head boys.

According to his father, Ben Cummings, who is a golf professional, Hayden first picked up a tennis racket at the age of four at Basingstoke's Totally Tennis, where his love for the sport quickly took root.

"Initially, I just wanted Hayden to have fun hitting balls on the court, but he quickly fell in love with tennis," Ben said.

"He's been improving rapidly over the past 11 years, and now he's balancing school with tennis very smartly. For him, school always comes first."

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Ben also spoke about his son’s key strengths on the court.

"Hayden has a powerful serve and a strong forehand, but what sets him apart is his mental toughness."

Hayden’s next major challenge will be the LTA National Tour event in November, where he hopes to continue his winning streak.