This year’s Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel National Open Tennis Championship ended today with promising wins at Changlimithang in Thimphu. The 7th edition of the tournament saw a total of over 60 participants, including five visiting players from India.
In the women’s singles category, 17-year-old Tenzin Dorji Yangkey bagged the championship title.
Tenzin Dorji Yangkey said, “It is my first time winning this championship. Till now, I have played this tournament, but I still haven’t won the title. I reached the semi-finals before. I would like to thank my parents, my friends and my coaches for supporting me throughout this journey. I am looking forward to working hard, and I would like to participate in more tournaments.”
In the men’s singles, 32-year-old Tandin Wangchuk secured the championship title, continuing his winning streak from previous years.
“It is a nice feeling, as always, participating in the tournament in the National Open, which is a prestigious tournament every year. And not just for the participation, but as an inspiration to the younger generation, kids from all categories. It is a great inspiration that I can be an example to them,” said Tandin Wangchuk.
This year’s edition also introduced a new Under-16 category for both boys and girls.
In the Under-16 girls’ category, Tandin Tsheyang Wangmo secured first place, while Aarush Das won in the boys’ category.
Likewise, in the veterans’ 45-plus category, Dinesh Chhetri won the title.
In the Lucky Mixed Doubles, Jigme Norbu and Tenzin Dorji Yangkey took home the trophy.
Tshering Namgay, the head coach of the Bhutan Tennis Federation, says the tournament continues to see growing talent across age groups, including participants from neighbouring countries. “I have been here since the first edition, and over the years we see players are improving, and there are a lot of foreign players who participate also, and it is one of the most prestigious tournaments that every tennis enthusiast looks forward to.
Organised by the Bhutan Tennis Federation and sponsored by the Bhutan Wine Company, the week-long tournament charged a fee of Nu 1,000 per category, with a 50 per cent concession for student participants.
Devika Pradhan
Edited by Phub Gyem
