His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck graced the finals of the first Bhutan Junior Tennis Championship held in Thimphu yesterday. Organised by the Bhutan Tennis Federation, the championship brought together 59 young players from Thimphu and Phuentshogling. The championship provided them with an opportunity to test their skills, gain competitive experience and nurture their passion for the sport.
Beyond the competition, the event reflected the growing enthusiasm for tennis among Bhutanese youth and the collective effort to build a stronger sporting culture for the next generation.
Among the winners was seven-year-old Selsang Efel Deyki from Trashigang, who claimed the Under-10 girls’ category title. The Class Two student of Pelkhil School began playing tennis only last year and hopes to compete in more tournaments in the future.
“I am happy to win the Under-10 match. I hope to play in more tournaments like this in the future. I want to become the best tennis player in the world.”
Nine-year-old Yoesel Rangdel Dorji, a Class Three student of Little Dragon School, won the Under-10 boys’ category.
“I am feeling very happy that I won this national tournament. I would like to thank Bhutan Tennis Federation, my coaches and my parents for supporting me.”
Likewise, Tenzin Dudu, a student of Dechencholing Higher Secondary School, claimed both the Under-14 and Under-16 titles. He also finished as runner-up in the Lucky Mixed Doubles category. Tenzin started playing tennis in 2023 and says he is determined to continue improving his game.
“Today, I am very happy to have won the U-16, U-14, and Lucky Mixed Doubles titles. I would like to thank my parents for their support. I will continue to practice hard and hope to win more tournaments in the future.”
The championship concluded with young athletes showcasing determination, sportsmanship and promising talent, highlighting the growing future of tennis in Bhutan.
Karma Wangdi and Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Sonam Pem
