The Lawn Tennis Association has officially announced alterations to the Eastbourne tennis tournament, which will be streamed live on Freeview channel 276 for enthusiasts to enjoy. This declaration follows apprehensions raised over proposals to diminish the town’s tennis tournament for 2025.
As reported by The Guardian, the proposals included relocating women’s tennis back to the Queen’s Club in Barons Court, west London, for the first time since 1973, alongside a new high-profile event at the beginning of the grass-court season. Consequently, Eastbourne’s International tournament would feature only three top-30 players.
In response to the concerns of the local community, Eastbourne MP Caroline convened with representatives of the LTA. Following the meeting, she expressed initial disappointment with the changes but acknowledged the potential for further investment in Eastbourne and enhancements to the overall fan experience. Despite the reduced number of top women’s seeds at the event from 2025, she underscored the commitment to ensuring the tournament’s success and the preservation of world-class men’s and women’s tennis in the town.
As part of the new grass court season for 2025, Eastbourne will be downgraded to WTA 250 status, resulting in fewer ranking points being awarded and the possibility of reduced prize money. Additionally, only three top-30 players may participate in the tournament.
Chris Pollard, LTA Director of Major Events and Digital, underscored that these changes are intended to increase the visibility of women’s tennis and generate interest in the sport at the beginning of the grass court season. The aim is to provide more public exposure for tennis in Britain and inspire the next generation.
Furthermore, the LTA spokesperson reassured the public of the organization’s commitment to maintaining a combined men’s and women’s tour level event at Devonshire Park in Eastbourne. The LTA will collaborate closely with Eastbourne Borough Council and local stakeholders to ensure that the tournament continues to attract players and fans alike, whilst retaining its unique allure.
Scott Lloyd, speaking to the Guardian, underlined that the tournament in Eastbourne was considered ‘commercially limited.’ However, he clarified that the changes were not about focusing tournaments in London, but rather to elevate the profile of top-level tennis during a specific period.
In conclusion, the confirmed changes to the Eastbourne tennis tournament for 2025 have sparked discussions and raised concerns among the local community. While some apprehension exists over the potential impact, the focus remains on ensuring the preservation and success of the tournament, as well as creating more opportunities to inspire and engage tennis fans.