2024 ITF Beach Tennis World Cup kicks off in São Paulo
The 2024 ITF Beach Tennis World Cup has commenced in São Paulo, Brazil, bringing together the world’s elite beach tennis athletes and junior prodigies for a week of fierce competition. The Aztec Arena came alive with excitement as 16 professionals and 11 junior nations gathered for the opening ceremony, signalling the start of the much-anticipated tournament.
Preparing for the tournament, players honed their skills on the sandy courts and prepped in a state-of-the-art “sand gym” before attending the official draw ceremony. Nations were randomly divided into four groups for the group stage, setting the stage for three days of intense competition, where only the top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stages. The stakes are high, as every team must deliver peak performances to overcome the world-class talent in their groups.
The opening ceremony featured a live samba band, dynamics samba dances and even impromptu performances by our players and fans, turning the center court into a joyful festival of rhythm and sport.
Teams comprise of men’s doubles, women’s doubles and mixed doubles ties. Adding to the anticipation, Italy returns as the defending champions, eying a record sixth title after their 2022 triumph. Their last final appearance ended in dramatic uncertainty, as severe weather halted the deciding match against host nation Brazil with the score tied 1-1.
The junior competition, introduced in 2015, continues to spotlight emerging talent and inspire the next generation of beach tennis stars. Hosting the event solidifies Brazil’s growing reputation as the global heart of beach tennis. With 13 of the 18 top-tier Beach Tennis Tour events held in the country, including three Sand Series tournaments and last week’s inaugural ITF Sand Series Tour Finals. Brazil remains a beacon for the sport.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
As the world watches, the 2024 ITF Beach Tennis World Cup promises thrilling matches, fierce rivalries and unforgettable moments, all unfolding on São Paulo’s sun-drenched courts.
Follow all the action across the ITF Beach Tennis Instagram Page.