More than 130 of the country’s most promising young tennis players are set to take to the courts as the 26th Sagicor Junior Tennis Tournament serves off from July 11 to 16 at the National Racquet Sports Centre, Tacarigua.
Hosted by Sagicor and Tennis Patrons Academy (TPA), the annual tournament has attracted 137 registered players to date, with entries expected to increase as registration remains open for the Red Ball category.
The tournament will feature competition in the Under-10, Under-12, Under-14, Under-16 and Under-18 age groups, as well as Division 1 (Advanced), Division 2 (Novice) and the popular Red Ball category, which introduces younger and less experienced players to competitive tennis in a fun, supportive environment. Makeda Bain and Madison Khan will be back to defend their titles in the Girls U16 Singles and Girls U18 Singles respectively.
Players from Trinidad and Tobago and Antigua and Barbuda will compete throughout the six-day tournament. The tournament currently boasts the largest field of competitors for any local or international tennis tournament held in Trinidad and Tobago so far in 2026, underscoring its reputation as one of the country’s premier junior sporting events. The majority of entrants are returning competitors, reflecting the tournament’s longstanding popularity and importance on the junior tennis calendar.
A key highlight of the tournament remains the Red Ball competition, which has become a much-needed pathway for developing young talent. Designed for children playing on smaller courts with modified equipment, the Red Ball format provides an enjoyable and low-pressure introduction to tournament play, helping young athletes build confidence, develop match experience and foster a love for the sport. Over the years, many of Trinidad and Tobago’s national junior players and experienced competitors have begun their competitive journeys through the Tennis Patrons Academy’s Red Ball programme.
Andrew Thornton, Tennis Patrons Academy representative, said the tournament continues to play a vital role in nurturing the country’s next generation of tennis talent. “The Sagicor Junior Tennis Tournament has become much more than an annual competition. It is an important stepping stone for young players at every stage of their development. From first-time Red Ball participants to our advanced junior athletes, the tournament provides valuable match experience, encourages personal growth and creates lasting memories. We are thrilled to once again welcome such a strong field of competitors and look forward to an exciting week of tennis.”
Asha Nabbie, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Sagicor Life Inc, said the company remains proud to support youth development through sport. “For 26 years, this tournament has reflected the power of partnership and the positive impact that sport can have on young lives. At Sagicor, we believe in investing in opportunities that help young people build confidence, discipline and resilience. We are proud to continue supporting this outstanding event and wish every participant the very best throughout the tournament.”
Competition begins on Saturday, July 11, with matches continuing daily through Thursday, July 16 at the National Racquet Sports Centre in Tacarigua. Spectators are invited to attend and support the region’s rising tennis stars as they compete for top honours.
About the Sagicor Junior Tennis Tournament
Now in its 26th year, the Sagicor Junior Tennis Tournament is one of Trinidad and Tobago’s premier junior tennis events. Hosted by Sagicor and Tennis Patrons Academy, the tournament provides young athletes with an opportunity to develop their competitive skills while promoting sportsmanship, excellence and the continued growth of tennis in Trinidad and Tobago.
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua Players Join More Than 130 Juniors at Tennis Tournament in Trinidad.