TUMAKURU is set to host its first-ever ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour W35 tournament from 4–10 May at the Tumkur District Tennis Stadium, located within the Tumkur University campus. The upcoming W35 will be only the second international tennis event in the city’s history and the first ITF women’s tournament, ending a gap of more than two decades.
The USD 30,000 event is part of the global ITF Women’s circuit, providing players with an important pathway to earn professional ranking points and progress towards the WTA Tour. The tournament is expected to attract a strong field of emerging international players along with leading Indian professionals, competing across a 32-player singles main draw and qualifying rounds.
The tournament also marks a historic milestone for Tumakuru, which last hosted an international tennis event in 2003 with the ATP Challenger: Tumkur Open. The event featured players such as Rohan Bopanna and Prakash Amritraj, while Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany went on to win the title. The tournament remains the only international tennis event to have previously been held in the city.
Hon’ble Minister for Home, Govt. of Karnataka and District Incharge Minister, Dr. G. Parameshwara said, “It is a proud moment for Tumakuru to host an international event of this scale after more than two decades. As a district with a strong sporting culture, this tournament reflects the progress in infrastructure and our continued commitment to promoting global sporting events while creating opportunities for youth across the region. I’m sure our District Administration headed by DC Will host this in a befitting manner. I thank KSLTA for this opportunity to Tumakuru.”
Priyank M. Kharge, Minister for IT/BT and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Government of Karnataka, and Sr. Vice President, Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association (KSLTA) shared, “Hosting an international women’s tennis tournament in Tumakuru reflects our vision of expanding world-class sporting opportunities beyond major centres. It is encouraging to see districts like Tumakuru emerge as new sporting hubs, supported by strong infrastructure and grassroots development. This initiative will not only strengthen Karnataka’s presence on the global tennis map but also inspire young talent across the state to pursue the sport at a competitive level. I thank Hon’ble Dr. Parameshwara for once again establishing Tumakuru on the Global Tennis map.”
Deputy Commissioner & District Magistrate of Tumakuru, Smt. Subha Kalyan, I.A.S. added, “Hosting the ITF W35 tournament is a proud milestone for our district. We are working in close coordination with all stakeholders to ensure seamless execution, high quality infrastructure and a safe well organised event. This tournament will not only enhance Tumakuru’s visibility on the international sporting map but also create meaningful opportunities for local youth and strengthen grassroots sports development.”
