With this article, we launch a series of stories about the winners of the 2026 Moldovan National Tennis Championships. This is the story of Moldova’s U12 Boys’ Champion, Robert-Natan Vainberg.
Robert-Natan Vainberg was just four years old when his mother first brought him to a tennis court. He began his journey alongside his older brother Mark, who is two and a half years older and was already training seriously. At the time, it was simply an introduction to a new sport. Today, Robert is the Moldovan U12 Boys’ Champion and one of the country’s most promising young tennis players.
Behind his calm demeanor on court lies an enormous amount of daily work. Almost every day after school he trains on court, works on his fitness, and refines his technique. In total, he dedicates 20–25 hours a week to tennis.
‘I loved it from my very first practice, and since then I simply can’t imagine my life without tennis,’ Robert says.
Robert’s story is closely connected with his family. His older brother Mark, now one of the strongest players in Moldova in his own age category, has always been by his side. Together they have progressed from their first junior tournaments to international competitions, supporting and challenging each other every step of the way.
That atmosphere motivates both brothers to improve every single day.
In recent years, Robert has established himself not only at the national level. He regularly competes in Tennis Europe events, and at the beginning of 2026 he represented Moldova’s U12 national team at the prestigious Tennis Europe Winter Cups.
For any young player, this is a major milestone. It is at events like these that children gain their first experience of international team competition and learn what it means to play not only for themselves but also for their country.
The toughest challenge at this year’s Moldovan Championships was the final. Not because his opponent was stronger than everyone else, but because the title he had dreamed of was at stake.
‘I really wanted to win, so I was a little nervous. But from the very beginning I told myself to fight for every single point.’
When the final ball was won, there was no holding back the emotions.
‘I was incredibly happy. It was wonderful to realize that all the hard work and daily training had paid off.’
Winning the national championship is, so far, the greatest achievement of Robert’s young career.
‘What I’m most proud of is becoming the Champion of Moldova. It’s a very important victory for me and a huge motivation to keep moving forward.’
Like thousands of young boys around the world, Robert closely follows the biggest stars of the sport. His favorite player is Carlos Alcaraz.
‘I like the way he plays with courage and speed, and how he never stops fighting. I really admire both his style and his attitude.’
Not surprisingly, Robert’s biggest dream is to compete in the Grand Slam tournaments, especially Wimbledon.
As Wimbledon begins once again, Robert is one of millions of young fans watching the world’s best players. For him, it is more than a beautiful tournament. It is the destination he hopes to reach one step at a time.
Despite his demanding schedule, Robert is still an ordinary boy. He enjoys spending time with his family and friends, playing PlayStation, and especially looks forward to trips to the United States.
Winning the Moldovan Championship is only one step on a much longer journey. Over the next few years, Robert hopes to achieve strong results on the Tennis Europe Tour, improve his ranking, become a stronger player, and compete for even bigger titles.
Judging by his work ethic, discipline, and love for the game, that journey is only just beginning.
Quick Fire
Favourite surface: Clay
Favourite shot: Forehand
New shoes or a new racquet: New racquet
Favourite place where you’ve played: Miami
Dream stadium: Wimbledon
Favourite meal after a match: Pasta with Parmesan
Favourite film: Titanic
Favourite school subject: English
Dream practice partners: Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka
Three words: Brave. Cheerful. Kind.
