The IC Rod Laver Junior Challenge Worldwide Finals - Daily Reports

Day Four

The matches of the day were split across the two clubs, with India taking on Argentina at RCTB and South Africa vs. Spain and Mexico vs. Italy held at RCP. After a number of days of very close competition, there were some more straightforward wins on Day 4. Paired with some injuries this meant some fun mixed doubles ties were paid in lieu of doubles when the overall outcome of the tie was already decided.

Spain vs. South Africa
On the RCP centre courts, front runners Spain took on South Africa, who were hunting their first win of the week. Spain raced ahead winning both number 2 matches in clinic fashion. Spain's number 1 boy Maxi fell behind 5-1 in his first set for the second day in a row, but miraculously recovered again to take match in a match tiebreak. Unfortunately the South African number 1 girl rolled her ankle and had to retire from her match but we hope she will be back in action tomorrow. After the singles, as the result was already determined and due to the many long days so far, it was decided to play a mixed doubles tiebreak to end the day. This gave the Spanish reserve girl a chance to play as well as some fun mixed doubles for the spectators.

Italy vs. Mexico
Team Italy again looked very at home on their native clay, showing great ball movement across all courts to secure four straight set victories over Mexico. This puts them in a great position to battle Spain tomorrow for a chance at the title. As the result was 4-0 after the singles, it was elected to play some mixed doubles to finish the day. Two hybrid Mexico/Italy teams (Mexaly vs. Itico!) were formed and played a fun set of mixed doubles.

India vs. Argentina
While the other two ties of the day were quite one-sided, this was a tough battle. In the first round of matches the scores were split one a piece after India took the girls match and Argentina the boys. This was despite an inspired espresso shot fuelled come back from the India number 2 boy. Argentina then grabbed the lead winning both number 1 matches, including a thrilling 10/7 win in the boys. After 3 match tiebreaks out of 4, attention turned to the doubles. Here the Argentina girls secured a convincing win to take the tie for Argentina. This was an important win as team Argentina could still be in line for the title results go their way on the final day.

Standings after Day 4:

After a slightly earlier finish for some of the teams and a much needed rest (perhaps even a siesta!) the players and captains hopped on a coach into the city to the famous Sagrada Familia. A personal tour guide, one in English and one in Spanish, showed the group around the museum and the church itself, which was incredibly impressive. Even the Barcelona locals were in awe of the building's beauty. Everyone enjoyed learning about Gaudi and spotting the nature inspired symbolism carved into the stone and hidden in the stained glass windows. After narrowly saving team Spain from boarding a Chinese tour bus rather than the tournament coach, it was back to the residence for a casual dinner and early night before the final day.

Day Three

The matches of the day were split across the two clubs, with South Africa taking on Italy at RCTB and Spain vs. India and Argentina vs. Mexico held at RCP.

South Africa vs. Italy
Italy continued their strong performances to capture the first three matches and take a 3-0 lead. South Africa's number one boy held his nerve to fork out a tough 7/6 7/6 victory to claw one rubber back and keep the tie alive going into the doubles. Here Italy proved to be too strong and took both doubles matches to secure the win 5-1.

Spain vs. India
This match was very closely contested and looked like it might be the first to head to a mixed doubles shoot-out after the singles finished at 2-2. India held a 2-1 lead but Spain's number 1 recovered from a 5-1 deficit in the first set to equal the tie and bring the momentum into Spain's favour. This continued into the doubles with Spain taking both to win 4-2. The wait for a mixed doubles shoot-out continues! 

Argentina vs. Mexico
Coming into the day with one win each under their belts, both teams were keen to gain a second victory. Scores were level at 1-1 after the first two matches after Argentina squeezed out a match tie-break win. Argentina's top players then showcased some excellent clay court tennis to secure comfortable wins and create a 3-1 lead. Team Mexico were able to pick up the girl's doubles but Argentina took the boys' doubles to win the tie 4-2.

Standings after Day 3:

For the evening's activities, the players headed down to the Olympic port by the sea and enjoyed a walk along the beach, catching glimpses of some beach tennis in action. They were then treated to a wonderful dinner together in the port where the bespoke menu even featured the IC logo! With each day it is wonderful to see friendships forming between the players, and this was evident today as the players all chatted and played games together over their dinner.

Day Two

The matches of the day were played at RCTB. Players, captains, parents and all supporters were all impressed by the tradition and beauty of the Club, as well as the warm reception from its members. We had a significant crowd in attendance, and Santi Tintoré was even interviewed by local TV.

Spain vs. Mexico

The day began with high-level tennis on show courts 1 and 2. The singles matches were hard-fought, but Spain proved too strong, winning the first four. After lunch, Mexico bounced back and claimed both doubles matches, but Spain secured the overall win with a 4–2 result.

South Africa vs. India

This match was held on the courts where the Conde de Godó tournament is usually played. India took the early lead by winning the first two singles. South Africa fought back to win the girls' singles 1, leaving the score 3–1 in India’s favour before lunch. The girls' doubles saw the return of injured player Maaya Rajeshwaran and ended in a thrilling Championship tiebreak, with India prevailing 11–9. India went on to win the boys' doubles as well, sealing a 5–1 victory.

Argentina vs. Italy

This tie was truly breathtaking. Every match had swings in momentum. After the first two singles, the tie was level at 1–1. Argentina then took the next two to lead 3–1. The doubles matches were moved to the show courts so everyone could enjoy the high-quality tennis being played. The boys' doubles concluded first in a tense Championship tiebreak, which Italy won 10–8 after trailing 8–4. On the adjacent court, Italy had taken the first set in the girls' doubles, but Argentina fought back and won the Championship tiebreak 10–5, taking the tie 4–2 overall.

Standings after Day 2:

After the matches, the players enjoyed a guided visit to the FC Barcelona Museum, which showcased the club’s rich history, legendary players, and iconic trophies. This was followed by traditional Spanish hospitality at a wonderful restaurant. It was heartwarming to see how the relationships between team members from different countries are evolving and growing stronger.

Day One

India vs. Italy
The day began with high-level tennis on Centre Court, featuring a rematch of last year’s final between India and Italy. Unfortunately, India’s top girl's player was sidelined due to injury, and a reserve had to step in. After the four singles matches, the tie was level at 2–2. The doubles were fiercely contested, but in the end, Italy came out on top, winning the tie 4–2.

Argentina vs. Spain
A classic clay-court showdown. The matches were extremely close, with 3 out of the 4 singles matches going to championship tie-breaks. Spain ultimately prevailed, winning the tie 4–2.

Mexico vs. South Africa
Mexico led 3–1 after the singles and sealed the tie 4–2. Notably, South Africa’s top girl's singles player overcame a tough travel ordeal—arriving at 1:00 AM after a delayed flight and lost luggage. Thanks to the generosity of teammates and other teams, she borrowed kit and rackets and still managed to compete.

After the matches, the players enjoyed exclusive private tours of Barcelona’s City Hall, a beautiful 14th-century Gothic building located in Plaça Sant Jaume, and the Generalitat, one of the few medieval buildings in Europe still serving as a seat of government. Both were specially opened for the occasion. The group then strolled through the city centre, taking in the vibrant atmosphere, before concluding the evening with a traditional Spanish dinner at Casa Cantabria.

Practice Day

• A fantastic day at the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona, where all teams trained and showcased an impressively high standard of play.
• The inauguration ceremony included all participating teams and featured speeches from Club President Pablo Sanchez, IC Spain President Santiago Tintoré, Tournament Director Ventura Durall and IC Council representative Felipe Bunster.
• A very special moment of the day was the philanthropy clinic, where players coached and interacted with two wonderful groups: a group of very young children, and a group from the Arapdis Foundation (Association for the Rehabilitation and Adaptation of People with Reduced Ability to Integrate into Society and the Workplace). Due to privacy considerations for some participants, we’re unable to share photos, but it was a truly meaningful and joyful experience for everyone involved.
• The Captains' Meeting ran smoothly, with no major issues raised. Notably, Jaume Campistol—Slam Finals Chair Umpire and Gold Badge official—is serving as the Honorary Referee for the tournament. Remarkably, his first-ever umpiring experience was at the Potter Cup!
• In addition to warming up, players took part in a fun “Off Court Challenge”, which was shared on social media. More of these to follow!
• In true IC spirit, one of the South African players, who was delayed in Amsterdam and arrived at 1 a.m. without her luggage, was able to compete thanks to the generosity of her teammates and other teams, who provided her with kit and rackets.

A huge thanks to the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona and the Real Club de Tenis Barcelona 1899 for being such wonderful hosts. Their world-class facilities, along with the warm hospitality and professionalism of their teams, have created an exceptional environment for all participants. Also to the IC Spain, who have gone above and beyond to organize a superb event. With the support of generous sponsors, two outstanding clubs, and an incredible team—Santi, Ventura Jr., Eva Bes, Eva Tuya, Ventura, and Jose Rafael—they have made sure every detail is covered: from airport pickups to physio sessions, team support, hotel transfers, and dinners.

Gabriela Sabatini Accepts 2017 CQS Jean Borotra Award

The Council of International Lawn Tennis Club is delighted to award the 2017 CQS Jean Borotra IC Sportsmanship Award to Gabriela Sabatini. 

The Award recognises outstanding sportsmanship throughout an individual’s playing career, which is consistent with the objectives and spirit of the now 40 International Clubs (ICs), as well as with a dedication to developing and encouraging participation in tennis across the world. 

Gabriela is a hugely deserving recipient of this prestigious award. Throughout her extremely successful playing career, she was known both on and off the court, no matter what the situation, for her kind, polite, respectful and genuine personality.  Gabriela even said of herself that she should “perhaps be a little more aggressive on the court”.  It was her graciousness and kind-heartedness, along with her natural elegance, which won over the hearts of world.

Since her retirement from the professional game, her contribution to many charitable projects highlight what a fantastic ambassador Gabriela is for both sport and for her country.

Gabriela is ambassador of the Fundación Argentina Contra el Cancer (FACEC), which promotes awareness and protection against breast cancer. (FACEC was founded, and is presided over, by Roman Rostagno, distinguished physician, former member of Argentina’s Davis Cup Committee, and a member of the IC of Argentina.) 

Gabriela has dedicated herself, especially, to supporting female athletes and to gender equality throughout the world.

Gabriela is also working on campaigns for UNICEF, UNESCO and the Special Olympics, as well as privately supporting education projects.  The Fundación Baccigalupo, which has been helping underprivileged children through sport for over 10 years, is another of Gabriela’s special interests. 

When the IC of Argentina hosted the South American qualifying rounds of the Compass IC Worldwide Junior Challenge in 2007, and again in 2015, Gabriela hosted IC Philanthropy tennis clinics alongside both events for underprivileged youngsters.  

Recently, Gabriela was selected as a role model for the 2018 Buenos Aires Youth Olympic Games. Such role models must exemplify the Olympic values both on and off the sporting field.  Accepting the role, Gabriela said: “Sport has provided me with tremendous opportunities throughout my life and I want to help inspire a new generation of players”. 

On the court, Gabriela’s talent for the game was demonstrated early, when she became the youngest player to win the Orange Bowl in Miami, at the age of only 13.  At 14, she won the French Open Under 18 Girls singles title and was the Junior World No. 1. A year later, in 1985, and still only 15, she became one of the youngest players ever to reach the semi-finals of the French Open.

Gabriela went on to win 27 titles throughout her tennis career, including the US Open in 1990, and two Masters titles, in 1988 and 1994.  She reached No. 3 in the world and won the Wimbledon doubles title with Steffi Graf in 1988. She was a 15 times Grand Slam semi-finalist, a US Open finalist in 1988, a Wimbledon finalist in 1991, and an Olympic silver medallist in 1988.  It was her consistency at the very top of the game which was particularly impressive. She spent 10 consecutive years in the Top 10 in the world, with six of them in the Top 5; and this was at a time when many other ‘legends of the game’ - Martina Navratilova, Steffi Graff and Monica Seles - were playing. 

Most importantly, and especially for this award, she was a true competitor and sportswoman both on and off the court - a great role model for women tennis players throughout the world.  She was inducted into the Tennis Hall of Fame in 2006.

Gabriela retired at the age of 26 and is now a business woman (she has her own lines of perfume). She still spends a significant amount of time giving back to tennis and loves doing sport herself as it allows her "to keep her feet on the ground".

We are thrilled that Gabriela has accepted the 2017 CQS Jean Borotra IC Sportsmanship Award.  We will be presenting it to her during the second week of The Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in July 2018.