COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, Apr 8 (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka has become a top destination for international tennis tournaments and a fast-growing hub in Asia, with the country now hosting a packed calendar of global events that is directly benefiting local players and tourism, according to Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA) President Iqbal Bin Issack.
“A lot of international events are happening right now and throughout the year our calendar has been full,” Issack said, pointing to the ongoing ITF Under-14 Development Tournament featuring around 18 countries.
He described this as a major boost for Sri Lanka’s tennis development, as local players now gain valuable international exposure at home without the high cost of travelling abroad.
Issack also highlighted Sri Lanka’s strong relationship with the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the Asian Tennis Federation (ATF), which has helped the country secure more tournaments due to its ability to host events successfully.
“It’s a game changer,” he said, noting that in the past year alone Sri Lanka has hosted Junior Davis Cup events for boys and girls, ITF junior tournaments, wheelchair World Cup qualifiers and multiple international wheelchair competitions.
These events have brought significant economic benefits, generating around 3,000 room nights in recent months and contributing to tourism growth.
Issack revealed that Sri Lanka is now recognised as one of the leading tennis centres in Asia, with major infrastructure upgrades planned at SLTA courts, including new lighting systems and international-standard facilities expected within the next seven to eight months.
“We have a lot of development plans and within a short time this place will look completely different,” he said.
The SLTA has also expanded its footprint across the country, with active centres in Bandarawela, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Negombo, Kurunegala, Ampara and Puttalam, further strengthening grassroots development.
Local players are already reaping the rewards, with Sri Lanka qualifying for key international events in both girls’ and wheelchair categories, while the boys’ team narrowly missed out but still has a chance to advance.
Issack noted that while many top players leave the country on scholarships, the growing number of coaching programmes and young talent coming through ensures a strong future for the sport.
“Tennis is doing very, very well,” he said. “We have a full calendar, strong international recognition and continuous development happening across the country.”
