Photo: Courtesy of SMK Tennis Academy
The UAE’s SMK Tennis Academy has announced the return of its annual tournament, now in its 13th edition. Under the patronage of HH Sheikha Mariam Bint Mohammed Bin Zayed, the tournament will be held from February 22 to March 8, 2023, at the palace of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan.
The exclusive members-only training school committed to highlighting women’s role in the sport was founded by Sheikha Shaikha bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan in 2009 and is based in Abu Dhabi. The royal founded the academy out of her love of the sport and the need to create a platform for Emirati women to practice and train in a private location. Over the course of the 15-day tournament, 33 matches will see intense face-offs between a total of 30 Emirati tennis players, including Hadeel Al Qadi, Shaikha Al Zaabi, Mahra Al Mulla, Ayesha Al Fahim, and Maha Bin Hendi.
Photo: Courtesy of SMK Tennis Academy
“SMK Tennis Academy proudly strives to advance tennis in the United Arab Emirates through progressive training programs specially tailored for female Emirati players by providing an exclusive platform to practice and train comfortably and to commemorate their growth with an annual tournament,” says Sheikha Shaikha bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan. “This unique event marks a chance for tennis enthusiasts of all levels – from novice to experienced – to come together and relish their passion for the sport.”
Attended by over 800-900 tennis enthusiasts each year, previous editions of the tournament have been won by Maha Bin Hendi in 2022, Hadeel Al Qadi in 2020, Yasmin Khasim Al Remeithi in 2018, and Hania Kuleib in 2017 and 2019 in the singles category. While doubles were won by Hania Kuleib and Hadeel Al Qadi in 2017, 2019 and 2020; Yasmin Khasim Al Remeithi and Sheikha Hamda Khalifa Al Nahyan in 2018; and Hadeel Al Qadi with Khuloud Al Mehairbi in 2022.
Photo: Courtesy of SMK Tennis Academy
Besides the tennis action on the court, guests can also expect a range of engaging activities and special occasions including fitness classes, beauty workshops, sports and lifestyle talks, exclusive dinners, and privileged networking opportunities.
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