Sport Desk
FUJAIRAH: Hosted at the Tennis & Country Club Fujairah, concluded after ten days of exciting competition and remarkable performances across the Boys and Girls Under 16 and Under 18 categories. From October 17 to 26, the courts in Fujairah came alive with intense rallies, skillful play, and the spirit of true sportsmanship as young athletes from around the world competed for top honors.
This year’s edition attracted a strong field of talented junior players, demonstrating the rising standard of youth tennis in the region. The tournament saw exceptional performances from two standout athletes — Tudor Zecheru of Romania and Isabelle James of Bulgaria — who each captured double titles in their respective age divisions.
In the Boys Under 16 and Under 18 categories, Romania’s Tudor Zecheru showcased outstanding form and consistency throughout the tournament. He triumphed in both finals, defeating Brendan Uchil (India) in the U16 final with a spirited comeback (1–6, 6–4, 10–3) and Ayaan Malik (Pakistan) in the U18 final with a confident straight-sets victory (6–2, 7–6). Already ranked No. 10 in his category, Zecheru’s victories in Fujairah mark his second titles of the year in both U16 and U18 competitions, cementing his position as one of Europe’s most promising young players.
Equally impressive was Isabelle James of Bulgaria, who dominated both the Girls Under 16 and Under 18 categories. Born in 2011, Isabelle has already achieved the rare feat of ranking No. 1 in both the Under 14 and Under 16 divisions. Her precision and composure were on full display as she defeated Mayar Rahal (Germany) in the U16 final (6–1, 6–2), followed by another strong performance in the U18 final against Callista Uchil (India), which concluded 4–1 after her opponent retired. With nine wins in the U14 circuit and seven in U16 earlier this year, Isabelle’s continued success in Fujairah further highlights her extraordinary potential and poise at such a young age.
The event drew participation from over 80 players across four divisions, bringing together a diverse mix of nationalities, playing styles, and cultures — united by a shared passion for tennis. Beyond the competition, the atmosphere at the Tennis & Country Club Fujairah was vibrant, filled with camaraderie among players, the support of enthusiastic fans, and the tireless efforts of organizers and volunteers who ensured the tournament’s success. A Message from the General Manager Reflecting on a Remarkable Tournament As the final match concludes and the cheers fade into memory, it gives me great pride to reflect on the tremendous success of this year’s Road to MADO Tennis Tournament. Over the past ten days, we’ve witnessed not only world-class athleticism but also the true spirit of sportsmanship, unity, and determination that defines the essence of tennis.
This event once again brought together outstanding players, passionate fans, and dedicated partners — all contributing to an unforgettable experience both on and off the court. From thrilling rallies to emerging young stars, every moment reflected our shared commitment to excellence and to nurturing the growth of the sport in our region.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, volunteers, organizing committee, and the entire operations team whose tireless efforts made this event seamless from start to finish. To the players — your dedication, discipline, and passion continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. To our fans — your energy and enthusiasm are the heartbeat of this tournament.
The Road to MADO Tennis Tournament continues to serve as a platform for fostering talent, promoting healthy competition, and celebrating the global tennis community. As we look ahead to next year, we remain committed to raising the bar even higher and creating more opportunities for excellence, inclusion, and innovation in the sport.
Thank you to everyone who made this year’s tournament a resounding success. Together, we’ve set a new standard — and the road ahead looks brighter than ever.
