*** Bahrain Leads the Way in Arab Tennis with 4th Elite Championship | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Bahrain Leads the Way in Arab Tennis with 4th Elite Championship

TDT | Manama

Email : hussianm@newsofbahrain

Bahrain once again proved its dedication to promoting sports excellence in the region by hosting the 4th Arab Tennis Elite Championship, held from December 18-22. The tournament was celebrated with a special dinner organized by the Arab Tennis Federation in honor of its participants.

The event, attended by prominent figures in Arab tennis, saw Sheikh Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, President of the Arab Tennis Federation, and Sheikh Abdulaziz Bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Tennis Federation, offer their support and appreciation for the event’s success. They were joined by heads of various Arab tennis federations and key officials, creating a true celebration of regional cooperation.

A Warm Welcome for All Participants

In his opening remarks, Sheikh Abdulaziz Bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa extended a warm welcome to all players, officials, and guests. He emphasized the importance of the championship in strengthening ties between Arab nations and elevating the standard of tennis in the region. Sheikh Abdulaziz expressed his pride in Bahrain’s efforts to host such a major sporting event, highlighting the outstanding performances from the athletes and the progress of tennis in the Arab world.

The President of the Bahrain Tennis Federation also acknowledged the hard work and support of Bahrain's Ministry of Interior and the Officers' Club of the General Security Directorate for their efforts in organizing the tournament. He praised the smooth collaboration that helped display Bahrain’s renowned hospitality and organizational ability.

Celebrating Bahrain’s Continued Commitment to Sport

Sheikh Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, President of the Arab Tennis Federation, also took to the podium to express his gratitude towards Bahrain for hosting the tournament. He congratulated the Kingdom on its National Day, extending heartfelt wishes to the leadership of Bahrain. Sheikh Ahmed also expressed his admiration for Bahrain’s unwavering dedication to hosting international events, having established itself as a key venue for top-tier sporting competitions.

He credited the success of the Arab Tennis Elite Championship to the collective efforts of everyone involved, including the Bahrain Tennis Federation and local institutions. With this tournament marking its fourth consecutive year, Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the tournament's importance in bringing in the best Arab tennis talent and pushing for greater global recognition.

Aiming for Greater Heights in Arab Tennis

One of the standout initiatives of this year’s championship was the introduction of a “wild card” entry to ATP events for the winner. This, according to Sheikh Ahmed, demonstrates the Arab Tennis Federation's commitment to giving Arab players a greater chance to succeed on the global stage.

The Federation also aims to continue improving its competitions for younger players, following its successful organization of the largest-ever junior tennis tournament in Tunisia earlier this year. These efforts reinforce the vision of the Arab Tennis Federation to develop the sport at all levels, from grassroots to elite.

Honoring Key Contributors

As the evening progressed, several individuals and organizations were recognized for their contributions to the success of the tournament. Sheikh Ahmed Al-Jaber presented commemorative plaques to Sheikh Abdulaziz Bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, the Bahrain Tennis Federation, and other key supporters, including the Officers’ Club of the Ministry of Interior and the Tunisian Tennis Federation.

The dinner and award ceremony closed the chapter on what was a memorable and successful tournament, cementing Bahrain's status as a hub for sporting excellence in the Arab world.