International Junior Tennis Championship to begin in Rajshahi on Oct 5

The 31st International (Under-18) Junior Tennis Championship-2026 will begin at the Rajshahi Tennis Complex on October 5 and continue until October 10.

More than 100 players from 10 countries, including host Bangladesh are expected to participate in the tournament.

The information was disclosed at a press briefing held at the conference room of the Rajshahi Tennis Complex today, where Tournament Director Hasinur Rahman Tinku announced various details of the tournament.

He said the tournament is being organised with the approval of the International Tennis Federation (ITF), financial support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and cooperation from the Bangladesh Tennis Federation.

Rajshahi Parjatan Motel, Hotel X and Grand River View have been designated as accommodation facilities for foreign players, coaches, guardians and officials, he said.

Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu is expected to attend the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest.

There will be no entry fee for spectators to watch the matches. The organisers have also taken an initiative to allow students from different schools in Rajshahi city to watch the matches to encourage their interest in tennis.

The qualifying matches will be held on October 4, while the main round will begin at 9am on October 5. The tournament final will be held at 9am on October 10, followed by prize distribution among the winners and runners-up.

According to the organisers, players from India, Thailand, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Nepal, Japan, China, South Korea and the United States, besides Bangladesh, will participate in the tournament.

There will be 32-player draws in both the boys' and girls' singles events. Eight players in each category will qualify for the main draw through the qualifying round, while four players in each category will enter through wild cards.

Five players from Rajshahi will take part in the tournament, with Rakin Rahman and Bakul Ali featuring in the main draw.

There will also be 16-player draws in both the boys' and girls' doubles events.

The organisers said the international tournament would not only help promote tennis in Rajshahi but also provide local players with opportunities to interact with foreign players and exchange experiences.