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• Frank Rotich 2 days ago

Parklands Sports Club set to host international Women’s Tournaments

Parklands Sports Club in Nairobi will host two major international women’s tennis tournaments early next year, giving Kenyan players a rare chance to compete for world ranking points at home.

‎The club has been approved to stage two ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour W35 events after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Tennis Kenya on Wednesday, December 17.

The approval came after Parklands Sports Club met all the international standards required to host global tennis events.

‎The two tournaments will run from December 29 to January 11 in Nairobi. This will be the second year in a row that Kenya is hosting the W35 events. Last year, the tournament was held at Nairobi Club, where Kenyan star Angella Okutoyi won the doubles title and reached the singles final.

‎Tennis Kenya said the partnership is a big step towards growing the game in the country. In a statement, the federation noted that working closely with private clubs will help Kenya host more international competitions and give local players better opportunities to compete without travelling abroad.

‎Up to 50 players from 48 countries are expected to take part in the tournaments.

The events offer valuable world ranking points, which are important for players aiming to qualify for major competitions, including the Olympic Games.

‎Tennis Kenya President James Kenani said hosting such events locally helps reduce costs and pressure on Kenyan players.

“By bringing world-ranking tournaments home, we make it easier for our athletes to compete and grow. This creates a clear path to the highest level of tennis,” he said.

‎Parklands Sports Club Chairman Norman Asega described the approval as a proud moment for the club and for Nairobi. He said the events confirm the city’s growing status as a host of international sports competitions.

Okutoyi, an African Games gold medalist, welcomed the news and said the home tournament will support her journey to qualify for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

“Playing a world-ranking event at home is a big advantage. I can focus on my game, earn points, and enjoy support from home fans,” she said.

‎With 10 Kenyan players expected to compete, the tournaments are set to boost local tennis and inspire the next generation of players across the country