Wrexham Open highlights Wales’ tennis court problem
With professional tennis returning to Wales for the first time in 30 years, North Wales MS Mark Isherwood has called for action to address a shortage of indoor tennis facilities.
Speaking in the Senedd Chamber, Mr Isherwood urged the Welsh Government to issue a statement on support for tennis facilities and to work with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and Tennis Wales to close the gap in provision.
“This week marks the return of professional tennis to Wales for the first time in 30 years, as the Lexus Wrexham Open begins at Wrexham Tennis Centre, the largest women’s tennis event in Great Britain outside of the grass court season,” he said.
“Although the tournament follows significant major investment in tennis and padel facilities across Wales, only 37 of the 1,100 tennis courts in Wales are covered tennis courts, the lowest percentage in Great Britain, and well below European counterparts, despite demand for indoor tennis in Wales.
“The Lawn Tennis Association and Tennis Wales are keen to work with Welsh Government to address this gap in facilities, and I call for a Statement accordingly.”
Responding, the Trefnydd, Jane Hutt MS, welcomed the contribution and said she would raise the issue with the relevant minister.
“Tennis Wales, I’m sure, will be delighted that you are raising this today, because this is an important sport and part of our Welsh sporting array of opportunities,” she said. “So, I will also raise this with the Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership.”
The Lexus Wrexham Open, now underway at Wrexham Tennis Centre, is the biggest women’s tennis tournament in Great Britain outside the grass court season. Matches are being broadcast live on BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website and the Tennis Channel.
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