THE fourth Vodafone Suva Open Tennis Tournament, set for August 21 to 24, will for the first time include Under-7, Under-8, and Under-10 divisions, expanding the competition beyond the existing Under-12, Under-14, and Under-16 categories.
The tournament, hosted at the Victoria and Paradiso tennis courts in Suva, reflects the Suva Tennis Association’s commitment to nurturing tennis at the grassroots level.
Vice-president Daniel Naidu highlighted that the new grades aim to open access to the sport for younger children, many of whom would not normally have tennis opportunities.
“We have a big tennis programme with schools, where close to 400 students regularly attend sessions at the Victoria Tennis Courts,” Naidu said.
He added that the association’s free coaching schools programme is a vital part of developing the next generation of players throughout Suva.
Since its inception, the tournament has grown significantly – from 91 player entries across 12 divisions in its inaugural year to a record 163 last year, marking an 80 percent increase.
It now draws competitors not only from Suva but also from across Fiji, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, and Australia.
Naidu noted the tournament’s rising importance as a regional event and a key preparation ground for major competitions like the Pacific Games.
He also acknowledged Vodafone’s ongoing support, which has been instrumental in enhancing participation and tennis development over the past three years.
This four-day event will showcase a wide age range of players, from the newly introduced youngest categories to seniors, promising exciting competition for local and international tennis enthusiasts.
