International tennis returns to Cuba after six years with the organization of two J30 tournaments in April as part of the ITF World Tennis Tour Juniors. This milestone event marks a significant moment for the sport on the island, which has not hosted a competition of this level since June 2019 or a professional ITF tournament since 2011. Despite economic challenges and the impact of the pandemic, the Cuban Tennis Federation has worked tirelessly to bring these events back.

Qualifying for the first J30 Havana will begin on April 5, with the main draw starting on April 7. The second tournament will take place the following week, offering young players a valuable opportunity to earn points in the international rankings. This effort has been supported by improvements in the country’s tennis infrastructure, including resurfacing the courts at the national tennis center, funded by the ITF and the NGO Kids on the Ball.

A BOOST FOR CUBAN TENNIS

The return of the ITF World Tennis Tour Juniors is a crucial opportunity for young Cuban players, many of whom have never competed in international tournaments. According to Cecilia Ancalmo, ITF Development Officer for Central America, this experience could be the first step toward careers on the global circuit. Additionally, Néstor Henry, Vice President of the Cuban Tennis Federation, emphasized that the competition will serve as motivation for local players, allowing them to measure their level against opponents from other countries.

Interest in tennis in Cuba continues to grow, with initiatives such as the ITF’s Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI), which in 2024 attracted 3,598 children across 41 locations and recorded over 11,500 entries in under-14 competitions. This program allows young players to start in tennis, participate in local tournaments, and receive support based on their potential. With the return of international tournaments, a new era begins for Cuban tennis, reaffirming its growth and ambition to compete on the world stage.