Uzbekistan to revive international tennis: ATP and WTA return from October 1
A presidential decree of 21 September orders Uzbekistan to resume ATP, WTA and ITF tournaments. By 2030 the country aims for 3,000 regular players, 200 coaches and a place among Asia's top five tennis nations.
Under a decree signed by the President of Uzbekistan on 21 September 2026, the country will resume international tennis tournaments. From 1 October 2026, ATP, WTA and ITF competitions are to be held regularly.
Which tournaments return
The plan includes an international Uzbekistan Open, a men's ATP Challenger, the Uzbekistan Cup (juniors and adults) and national championships across age groups. ATP-level events were last held in Uzbekistan in 2002, while the WTA Tashkent Open ran from 1999 to 2019, the final edition taking place in September 2019.
Targets by 2030
By 2030 the authorities aim to raise the number of regular players to 3,000 and coaches to 200, with the ultimate goal of placing Uzbekistan among Asia's top five tennis nations. From 1 January 2027, tennis will be taught to grades 1–4 as part of school physical-education classes.
Financing
Tournament costs and athletes' prize money will be covered by charitable donations. From 1 January 2027 courts move to self-financing; those unable to turn a profit may be transferred to private investors. Budget savings will fund vitamins, sportswear and equipment for athletes.
Prize money
At the Asian Games, a gold medal will bring the athlete $25,000 and the coach $10,000. Silver pays $12,500 and $5,000; bronze pays $6,250 and $2,500.
