Rajshahi:The 31st International (Under-18) Junior Tennis Championship-2026 is scheduled to commence at the Rajshahi Tennis Complex on October 5 and will run until October 10.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, more than 100 players from 10 countries, including Bangladesh, are expected to participate in the tournament. The event is organized with the approval of the International Tennis Federation (ITF), supported financially by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and in cooperation with the Bangladesh Tennis Federation.
Tournament Director Hasinur Rahman Tinku shared details of the championship at a press briefing held at the Rajshahi Tennis Complex. He announced that Rajshahi Parjatan Motel, Hotel X, and Grand River View have been designated to accommodate foreign players, coaches, guardians, and officials. Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu is anticipated to attend the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest.
Spectators can enjoy the matches without an entry fee, and organizers have encouraged students from various schools in Rajshahi city to attend, aiming to foster interest in tennis among the youth. The qualifying matches are set for October 4, with the main round beginning at 9 am on October 5. The tournament will conclude with the final at 9 am on October 10, followed by a prize distribution ceremony for the winners and runners-up.
Participants will include players from India, Thailand, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Nepal, Japan, China, South Korea, and the United States, in addition to Bangladesh. The tournament will feature 32-player draws in both boys' and girls' singles events. Eight players in each category will qualify for the main draw through the qualifying round, with four players entering through wild cards.
From Rajshahi, five players will compete, with Rakin Rahman and Bakul Ali participating in the main draw. The doubles events will have 16-player draws for both boys and girls. The organizers believe this international tournament will not only promote tennis in Rajshahi but also offer local players the chance to interact with foreign players and share experiences.