It’s back-to-back action

Two tennis tournaments boost for city

TWO professional tennis tournaments played back-to-back over an action-packed fortnight is a welcome return for one of the region’s premier events.

The Cairns Tennis International #1 started on Sunday, the first time the event has been played in the tropics since 2019.

Played at the Cairns International Tennis Centre in North Cairns, the first tournament, which is part if the Australian Pro Tour, has attracted some of the best tennis players from the across the country, as well as several internationals.

But Cairns is one of only two venues to benefit from back-to-back tournaments in the same city, allowing players to base themselves in the Far North – and part with cash at our businesses – for a fortnight before moving to the competition. Venue operator Paul Horn said it was a significant get for the region.

“Cairns is very lucky to be one of the very few regional towns in Australia to get this kind of tournament,” Horn said. “It’s two weeks instead of the normal one this year, so players and officials will be here for a full fortnight.

“Cairns was the only place picked out, along with Caloundra, which hosts a big Pro Tour event, for this kind of schedule.

“We are pretty lucky to be in that position.”

The luck didn’t last for local singles players in the tournament, none of whom made it past the first round. But they have another chance for success on their home court when the Cairns Tennis International #2 starts with qualifiers on Sunday – the same day of the first tournament’s finals.

Both tournaments are worth $25,000 in prizemoney for men and women, with a chance for the best players to cash in if they can maintain top form for the fortnight.

That is tough in these conditions, especially after their last stop in Darwin, but it’s an opportunity many players are expected to chase.

“Most people are staying for the fortnight, which is great for the town,” Horn said.

The Cairns Tennis International #1 is reaching the pointy end, with semi-finals to be played in the next day.