Lý Hoàng Nam in action at the World Group II playoffs where Việt Nam hosted South Africa on February 3 in Bắc Ninh Province. Photos of VTF

Lý Hoàng Nam made a double win but he could not help Việt Nam be promoted to the World Group II for the first time in history.

Việt Nam were defeated 3-2 by South Africa in playoffs over the weekend, their second time in a row losing at this stage.

Nam, world No 557, proved his strength beating No 416 Kris Van Wyk 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 in the third singles match at the Hanaka Paris Ocean Park Tennis Courts in Bắc Ninh Province.

Earlier, the former Wimbledon boys' doubles champion won 6-3, 6-4 over No 748 Philip Henning.

Lý Hoàng Nam (right) and teammate Nguyễn Văn Phương in the double match.

His great effort however could not save Việt Nam from a defeat in the double match. Nam was in pair with Nguyễn Văn Phương and they lost 6-4, 1-6, 4-6 to Henning and Christiaan Worst.

However, his teammates Trịnh Linh Giang failed to secure a win when he was beaten 2-6, 2-6 by Henning and 6-4, 3-6, 0-4 by Van Wyk.

South Africa will compete at the World Group II where they will face the loser of the World Group I's playoff match in September. Meanwhile, Việt Nam will play in Group III competition in July and August. VNS