Fujairah has become the latest meeting point for the UAE’s tennis community, with more than 200 players taking to the courts for the second MADO Fujairah Tennis Championship.
From ambitious youngsters chasing their next breakthrough to experienced Open competitors and veterans returning to competitive action, the championship has brought together players from across generations and communities.
Held under the patronage of the UAE Tennis Federation, in cooperation with Fujairah Tennis Club,the tournament has attracted players from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah, as well as expatriate residents representing a wide range of nationalities.
The competition features boys’ and girls’ categories in the Under-12, Under-14, Under-16 and Under-18 age groups, alongside Men’s and Women’s Open events and a Veterans competition for players aged 35 and above.
And for the first time green ball ( under 10) was added to the categories for improvement of grass roots.
The impressive turnout has underlined the growing appetite for competitive tennis in the UAE and the increasing role of Fujairah in providing a platform for players to test themselves against opposition from across the country.
Chief Referee Captain Laith Al Ani said the diverse participation was a reflection of the championship’s growing reputation.
The strong participation from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah, together with players from different nationalities, reflects the growing reputation of the championship and its expanding player base,” said Al Ani.
He stressed the importance of creating regular competitive opportunities for players at different stages of their development.
Championships such as this give players the opportunity to compete, gain valuable match experience and improve their skills. They also provide a platform for talented young players to develop and progress in the sport, he added.
For H.E. Abdulghafour Behrouzian, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fujairah Tennis Club,the championship represents more than another tournament on the UAE tennis calendar.
He praised the UAE Tennis Federation for its continued confidence in the club and for entrusting it with the organisation of major competitions.
Behrouzian said the club was committed to supporting tennis at every level and creating opportunities for players of different ages and abilities to compete and develop.
That ambition is being matched by investment in the venue itself. Fujairah Tennis Club is currently undertaking a series of development and modernisation projects across its facilities and infrastructure, with the aim of further strengthening its ability to host major sporting events.
The planned improvements are expected to enhance the club’s readiness for more local and international tournaments while contributing to Fujairah’s growing profile as a tennis destination in the UAE and the wider region.
With more than 200 players competing across a wide range of categories, the second MADO Fujairah Tennis Championship is showcasing the breadth of the UAE’s tennis community and putting Fujairah firmly in the spotlight as the sport continues to grow.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
