SINGAPORE – Known for its vibrant culture, stunning attractions, and delectable culinary scene, Singapore is a prime destination for tourists and athletes alike. With the Singapore Tennis Open set to take place from September 21 to 27, some of the world's elite tennis players have already begun to immerse themselves in the local experience.
Exploring Orchard Road
Among them is Amanda Anisimova, currently ranked 11th globally. The American tennis star shared her excitement about exploring Orchard Road, a hub known for shopping and cuisine, although she opted to skip the Sentosa beach due to the sweltering heat. At a welcome event on September 20, she expressed her fondness for the city, stating, “I love walking around here, all the shopping and the people. They’re so welcoming, and the atmosphere is amazing.”
Cultural Highlights and Local Delicacies
Several players added a touch of local flavor by donning traditional kebayas at the event held at the Hilton Singapore Orchard. Guests were entertained with live performances from the ethnic music group yIN Harmony, serenading the attendees with familiar folk tunes.
Greek player Maria Sakkari, ranked 33rd in the world, encountered a delectable challenge in the form of chilli crab and mantou, a local bun. She described it as “tough to eat, but very good,” highlighting the unique culinary experiences that accompany the tournament. For these WTA competitors, engaging with the local culture enhances their travel experience and adds to the excitement of competing in Asia.
Drawings & Expectations for the Tournament
The hardcourt championship at the OCBC Arena in Kallang features a formidable lineup, including top seed and Roland Garros champion Mirra Andreeva, Filipino star Alexandra Eala, and last year's champion Elise Mertens. Anisimova and other leading seeds have garnered byes into the second round, allowing them some extra time to adjust.
Anisimova cherishes her travels, which help her unwind amid a busy tournament schedule. She commented, “It brings cultures together and lets us explore cities we might not visit otherwise. I came here early to check out the city and make sure I had time to relax.”
Andreeva, ranked 5th in the world, also values the chance to play in different locations. She finds joy in engaging with fans, particularly younger audiences, saying, “It’s wonderful that a lot of people can see us play live, like kids or anyone who loves tennis. It allows us to explore new cities and meet new people.”
Returning Champions and Rising Stars
The thrill of competing adds to the experience. For Andreeva, her recent victory at Roland Garros fuels her motivation, as she aims to further enhance her skills and win more titles. With her sights set on dethroning practice partner Mertens, the 19-year-old is eager to showcase her talents in Singapore.
Mertens, now 30, returned to Singapore as the defending champion, a title she secured back in February 2025. She reminisced, “It’s special coming back as a defending champion. Winning here meant a lot, and seeing the crowd support during the matches created a vibrant atmosphere.”
For Alexandra Eala, ranked 18th, participating in such high-profile events holds personal significance. The 21-year-old shared her thoughts about inspiring young fans and players in Southeast Asia, stating, “This tournament is the biggest in the region, which is fantastic for the community. It gives them a benchmark and something to aim for.”
The Singapore Tennis Open not only showcases world-class tennis talent but also serves as a platform for aspiring young players, shining a light on the growth of the sport in the region.
