Ep. 18: Eiichirou seeks parental approval for pro career and faces Ike Souji
Eiichirou investigates becoming a professional player but receives a lukewarm response from his parents. He attends the first round of the All Japan Pro tournament with Natsu to watch Ike Souji’s debut. Eiichirou then presents a proposal to his parents, requesting one year off from studying and cram school to focus on qualifying for the All Japan Junior tournament. He agrees to prioritize academics if he fails to win. After securing their approval, he informs his coaches at STC, who devise an intense schedule of practice and tournaments to prepare him. Later, Ike Souji visits STC and, after receiving clearance from his staff, practices with volunteers. When his support team leaves, Ike asks Eiichirou to play a full practice match with him during the remaining time.
Episodes
- Ep. 14 · Eiichirou advances after Hiromi's cramp and prepares for Araya in the semifinals.
- Ep. 15 · Eiichirou devises a five-step strategy to defeat Araya in a high-stakes tennis tournament match.
- Ep. 16 · Araya suppresses emotions to maintain lead while Eiichirou attempts strategic prediction in tense final game
- Ep. 17 · Araya and Takuma compete in the finals while Eiichirou considers a professional tennis career.
- Ep. 18 · Eiichirou seeks parental approval for pro career and faces Ike Souji
- Ep. 19 · Eiichirou steals a point before intense training and observing top junior players
- Ep. 20 · Eiichirou wins the tournament and receives a week off before more training
- Ep. 21 · Eiichirou faces top seed Yu Nabae after qualifying last for the tournament
- Ep. 22 · Yu Nabae Exploits Eiichirou's Lack of Fundamental Experience in Match