The Qatar Tennis Federation (QTF) has launched a groundbreaking exhibition celebrating the history of tennis in the country, marking a significant milestone for the sport. This first-of-its-kind initiative, organized in collaboration with the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, aims to provide visitors with insights on the evolution of tennis and the influence it has had on Qatari culture.
The exhibition officially opened today at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex and will be accessible throughout the Qatar TotalEnergies Open and the Qatar ExxonMobil Open tournaments. This strategic timing ensures tennis enthusiasts and visitors converge to witness this unique celebration of the sport.
The exhibition showcases a diverse collection of items, prominently featuring memorabilia from His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the Amir of Qatar, who has played a pivotal role in nurturing tennis within the nation. It also includes trophies won at Gulf and regional competitions, alongside historic photographs depicting some of Qatar's most celebrated tennis players.
International tennis stars and their memorable moments on the Qatari courts will also be highlighted, underscoring the country’s deep-rooted connection to the global tennis community. The exhibition serves not just as a display of accomplishments but as a narrative of how tennis has become intertwined with Qatari identity.
Tariq Zainal, the Secretary-General of QTF, expressed his pride, stating, "This exhibition is a tribute to the rich history of tennis in Qatar and reflects our commitment to celebrating the athletes who have shaped the sport’s story. Beyond chronicling achievements, this exhibition stands as a testimony to our sporting heritage, which has become integral to our national identity. We are immensely proud of the milestones we have reached and remain steadfast in our mission to build on this legacy."
Abdulla Yousuf al-Mulla, Director of the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, echoed this sentiment, adding, "We are pleased to join hands with QTF on this momentous event, marking the first exhibition of its kind. Collaborations with local sports institutions enrich our cultural experiences, connecting the community to its sports heritage."
Game-Set-Match offers everyone—from tennis enthusiasts to casual visitors—a unique opportunity to learn about the key milestones encompassing Qatari tennis, including the contributions of various individuals pivotal to the sport's growth. This exhibition not only serves as historical documentation but also presents future potentials for tennis development and promotion within Qatar.
With the opening of this exhibition, Qatar continues to position itself as a key player on the international sports stage, demonstrating the nation’s dedication not only to hosting grand events but also to celebrating its rich sporting history. The QTF's commitment to elevative the sport is indicative of Qatar's broader vision of fostering sports culture as part of the national ethos.