Male' Maldives: Tennis Association Of Maldives (TAM)'s hard work is gathering its pace and they are taking this sport in Maldives to another level according to Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, Abdulla Rafiu (Raappe).
Maldives national tennis player Aaraa Aasaal Azim made history by winning two ATF Maldives Open tournaments (U16 event), becoming the first player to secure back-to-back titles in ATF-sanctioned junior events. In the first tournament, Aaraa defeated her teammate Nayara Usama Ali in the singles final with a commanding 6-0, 6-4 victory. In the doubles event, Aaraa and Nayara teamed up to beat Hong Kong’s Aishath Karin Saizan and Hiu Lam Ella Wong, securing a 6-3, 6-4 win. In the second tournament, Aaraa faced Hiu Lam Ella Wong of Hong Kong in the singles final, securing a 6-2, 6-3 victory. The match was delayed due to rain.
During the closing ceremony of the competition, Minister Rafiu, on behalf of the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation and the sports community, expressed his gratitude to all the participants who traveled from their respective countries to take part in the tournament.
"It has been a great pleasure and honor for us to witness this tournament, which has concluded successfully and with excitement. We thank all of you who participated in this momentous occasion, one that we will cherish for many months and years to come," Rafiu stated.
Rafiu praised the efforts of the Tennis Association of Maldives (TAM) for their ongoing work in developing the sport in the country.
He highlighted that the association is pushing tennis to new heights.
"I believe tennis is on the verge of spreading across the nation. The association has already initiated venues in other regions, and I hope this development will continue to expand in the coming months and years. I thank the association for organizing this tournament and creating this wonderful experience for all of us, where we showcased our skills and talents to the world. Thank you for your great efforts to elevate the sport to new heights," Rafiu added.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of such events in fostering the growth of TAM, celebrating the athletes' achievements in these two major ATF-level tournaments.
TAM reached a significant milestone by hosting back-to-back international tournaments within just 12 days. Looking ahead, they are eager to host more international tournaments in the Maldives, in even better facilities.
