Fans at the fan zone at the 2026 Singapore Tennis Open. Handout/The Kallang
SINGAPORE — Singapore Tennis Open co-tournament directors Laura Ceccarelli and Yazed Osman have proven the city is ready to host world-class women's tennis.
"After the amazing experience of the WTA Finals here in Singapore years ago, we really wanted to bring world-class women's tennis back to this city because it's a city that deserves it," Ceccarelli said. “It's a city that really makes players happy, feel safe, feel so appreciated."
The jump from 250 to 500 did not happen overnight as last year's debut tournament was a deliberate first step.
"Last year, we started with a small 250," Ceccarelli said.
"You know, it was a first step. We wanted to see how the spectators and the community would react. And the welcome we got from everyone in the city was amazing. The players loved it. So this proved to us that Singapore, for sure, was ready for the next step."
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Osman, who brings over 25 years of experience organizing major sporting events in Singapore, said the elevation was always part of the plan.
"The elevation from 250 to 500 is a testament that we've always wanted to put the Singapore Tennis Open in the WTA international calendar," he said. “We've proven ourselves through the WTA Finals and the WTA 250, and I hope that made it an easy decision for the WTA to approve the 500 for us."
Beyond the draw and the rankings points, the pair said they want the tournament to be something the wider community can feel with or without a ticket.
"We always want to connect with the community at large. Even if you don't have a ticket, you can come and soak in the atmosphere," Osman said.
“We have a fan zone, we have a big screen out in our precinct. Come and join, and we will inspire you to come back next time and watch."
Free entry was also offered during the first two days of qualifying.
"That is something we want to bring back to the community — not only for Singapore, but for the community at large within this region as well," Osman said.
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Ukraine's Oleksandra Oliynykova signs an autograph during a meet-and-greet at the 2026 Singapore Tennis Open. Handout/The Kallang
When asked if they were ready for Eala Mania — the phenomenon brought by Filipina tennis star Alex Eala — both organizers laughed.
"I don't think we can ever be ready," Ceccarelli said. "It's a surprise every day. You hear more and more."
"We welcome the Filipino community to support their star player. This is something we create not only for the Singapore community, but for having that connection between athletes and fans,” Osman said.
What made the moment even more special is that Eala has a history with Singapore that goes back years.
In 2016 and 2017, Eala competed in the WTA Future Stars in Singapore where she even won a special award.
"Eala came here when she was very young," Osman said.
"She even won a special award — the Li Na Award, for the most inspirational player of the future," Ceccarelli added.
"Unbelievable," Ceccarelli also said. "Yes, she was staying right here at Kallang. We were hosting her. And wow, if you think about it… it's an amazing story."
Ceccarelli also gave emphasis on the Filipino fans' growing passion for tennis.
"Your love and passion for tennis is incredible these days," she said. “It’s at such a high level that it cannot be ignored."
This year, Eala returns as world no. 18 and seed no. 3 at the Singapore Tennis Open, ready to face Tatiana Prozorva in the second round on Thursday.