The court-side experience of The Mallorca Championships

Written by Jens Oomes

The organisers of the Mallorca Championships invited The Islander Magazine to the third edition of the ATP 250 held in Santa Ponça (Calvià). The meticulously organised event hosted some of the world’s greatest tennis players, in the wonderful setting of the Santa Ponça Country Club.

The atmosphere was glamorous but also relaxed. Especially on the opening night, which started with a special moment to celebrate Feliciano López. The 41-year-old player decided to make The Mallorca Championships his last tournament before retiring from competition. Boris Becker was present to share a few words to highlight the achievements of López. These include seven titles and more than 500 individual victories on the ATP Tour, five times champion with Spain of the Davis Cup and winner of a doubles Grand Slam at Roland Garros (2016).

The Mallorca Championships is one of eight tournaments that make up the grass-court tour that ends with the third Grand Slam of the calendar at Wimbledon. Adding to the true Mallorcan spirit, the event is directed by Toni Nadal, uncle, and ex-trainer of Rafael Nadal. Toni Nadal explains: “On grass the tennis concept changes completely. While on clay court you have to be a solid player with powerful and consistent shots from the back of the court, here the court helps you when you have a good serve. When you make shots, you don’t need so much power, but you have to do it a little lower to make it difficult for the other player to hit the ball.”

Rafa Nadal himself was present to watch some of the games, which caused quite the stir whenever he passed through the public areas. While it was a magnificent event for people to see and be seen at, the seriousness of the competition was obvious and unmistakable. To watch these athletes at work in full focus with emotions ranging from deep concentration and frustration to the ecstatic high of the victory is a unique experience.

Mallorca is growing its international reputation as a high-end destination, and the Mallorca Championships definitely contribute to the name and fame. The fast-growing success of this event leans on the attraction it has towards the top 100 players in the world. Director Toni Nadal commented: “The Mallorca Championships is growing every year. I think that the event, the infrastructure and everything in general is getting better and better and people notice that. This tournament, although it is only three years in the circuit – and you know that it is difficult at the beginning to set up events of this category and make them work immediately – is becoming more established. I think the players are happy to participate here and although this year we had some problems with injuries to various world stars, the roster is still very good. I know, because I talk to the players: they are very happy both with the treatment and with everything that comes with playing here.”

The tournament was won by American Christopher Eubanks in the singles. In the doubles the victory was for Yuki Bhambri from India and South African Lloyd Harris.

The Islander is rooting for the continued success of this event, which brings Mallorca to The World and The World to Mallorca!