Tunisia’s tennis rise: from underdog to global competitor

Tunisia has not traditionally been synonymous with tennis, but in recent years the country has emerged as a rising force on the international circuit. Its athletes are breaking records, competing in Grand Slams, and inspiring a new generation of players. That’s due to major investments in the sport, according to a report in retailtechinnovationhub.com

The country’s breakthrough moment came in 2022 when Ons Jabeur became the first Arab woman to reach a Grand Slam final at Wimbledon. Her success put Tunisia on the map, proving its potential to develop elite players.

Since Jabeur’s rise, more Tunisian athletes have emerged. Skander Mansouri and Malek Jaziri competed in ATP tournaments, the worldwide top-tier tennis tour for men organized by the Association of Tennis Professionals. Junior players soon dominated the African circuit. Tunisia now reportedly boasts one of the most advanced tennis programs in North Africa, creating a clear pathway for young talent.

This transformation has reportedly been fueled by investments in infrastructure, coaching, and international exposure. The country now reportedly hosts over 50 regional tennis academies and maintains affiliations with international training programs. Events like the Tunis Open further enhance opportunities for local players to gain global recognition.

Despite financial challenges and limited training facilities in rural areas, Tunisia’s rising profile is reportedly attracting global sponsors and government support. The nation’s approach mirrors Spain’s investment in tennis in the 1970s under dictator Francisco Franco, which created a talent pipeline producing world-class players like Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz.