30 Emirati Sports Stars in The Spotlight at The Annual SMK Tennis Tournament
Sheikha Shaikha bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan’s invite-only initiative debuts its 13th edition
Competition highlights include fiercely-fought matches, plus fitness classes, workshops, talks and luxury events…
What started as a personal passion project that revolved around a love for tennis has evolved into an action-packed 15 day competition, featuring more than 30 Emirati players over 33 matches, held from 5-19 November 2023 at the palace of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.
The latest incarnation of the SMK Tournament, guided by Sheikha Shaikha bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, launched last night with an exhibition match showing the prowess of the exclusive members-only training school that was launched in 2009 to provide a private space for Emirati women to get world-class tennis training.
Sheikha Sheikha explained “SMK Tennis Academy proudly strives to advance tennis in the United Arab Emirates through progressive training programmes specially tailored for female Emirati players by providing an exclusive platform to practice and train comfortably, and to commemorate their growth with an annual tournament. This unique event marks a chance for tennis enthusiasts of all levels, from novice to experienced, to come together and relish their passion for the sport.”
Fans of the popular private sporting event will be thrilled to see the return of Hadeel Al Qadi, who won the championship in 2022 alongside Khuloud Al Mehairbi. The Aldar Properties’’ Senior President of Design has been dominating the game with a multitude of SMK wins under her belt over the last eight years. Last year’s Singles winner, Maha Bin Hendi, is set to hit the courts again to reclaim her crown once more too. Other names to watch out for include Mahra Al Mulla, Shaikha Al Zaabi and Ayesha Al Fahim.
Enthusiasts will also be lucky enough to see Sheikha Sheikha – who admits to being both a Nadal and Djokovich fan – compete herself, with the potential of her going up against her own daughter a very likely outcome!
There’s always a tremendous response from those invited, with over 900 ladies putting the event in their diaries, and turning up to support the players.
And although the focus is firmly on the on-court action sponsored by Emirates NBD and in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Ports Group and Burjeel Holdings, there’s plenty to experience in the vicinity too. The 2023 edition sees the aptly chosen theme of movement, and the power of transformation being interpreted in innovative ways. Luxury partners like Boucheron and Farfetch showcase their latest collections, while fitness classes, workshops and talks – plus lavish dinners – ensure the event remains at the heart of the Emirati social calendar.
For more information visit @smk_tennis
All images supplied