With just two days left before the highly anticipated Rwanda Open M25 kicks off, Rwandan players are keen to put up a strong performance in Kigali. ALSO READ: Tennis: Rwanda Open M25 returns September 23 The tournament, which is taking place in Kigali for the second time since being recognised on ITF World Tennis Tour calendar, attracting professional tennis players from around the world. The first week of the competition will take place from September 23-29 and it will be followed by the second week from September 30 to October 6. All matches will take place at IPRC-Kigali Ecology Tennis courts. While six Rwandan players were initially granted ‘wild card’ entries, Brian Karenzi earned his spot through merit after a last-minute withdrawal by a higher-ranked player, allowing him to compete based on his ATP points. Prior to the tournament, Rwanda’s current top seed Claude Ishimwe expressed optimism about their chances. “A player is always prepared like a soldier. We’ve been given everything we need, and we promise to give our best. Based on our recent performances, we are ready and confident,” Ishimwe said. All is set Rwanda Tennis Federation president Théoneste Karenzi expressed his confidence in the country's preparations. “We are fully prepared for the tournament, and our players are ready to compete. We urge Rwandans to come out and support our athletes, as they are eager to perform at their best,” said Karenzi during a press conference held on Friday, September 20. Unlike the 2023 edition, Karenzi tasked local players to represent the country well and show what they can offer on the international stage. “We want to encourage players to work hard to earn their points, as this will push them to improve,” he noted. The Rwanda Open M25 will cost organisers a budget between Rwf 120 and 157 million, including USD 25,000 worth in prize money.
