The legendary Arthur Ashe complex at the Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire, now renamed Central Tennis Club , has been completely renovated. Under the leadership of Sylvère Koyo and the Ivorian Tennis Federation (FIT), the site has been transformed into a world-class facility, ready to host the elite of international tennis while offering a festive experience to the Ivorian public.

A tournament village blending sport and lifestyle

Beyond the competition, the site was designed as a true living space. Between matches, spectators stroll through a vibrant exhibitors' village:

1. Gastronomy: Food stalls, reflecting the success of pastry shops (cheesecakes), provide sustenance for enthusiasts.
2. Shopping: Strategically located sports equipment stores are benefiting from the increasing foot traffic.
3. Networking: The two side courts to the main court have become the headquarters for sponsors, transforming the event into an essential business hub.

Ivory Coast is gaining momentum: from ATP 50 to ATP 75

The FIT's gamble seems to be paying off. After the resounding success of 2025, marked by Eliakim Coulibaly 's historic victory at the ATP 50 tournament, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) has renewed and strengthened its confidence in Abidjan.

This 2026 edition marks a turning point with an upgrade in quality:

1. Stage 1 (April 20-26): An ATP 50 tournament (50 points for the winner), a remake of last year's.
2. Stage 2 (April 27 - May 3): A major new feature with an ATP 75 tournament, offering more points and attracting an even higher level of competition.

"Our ambition is clear: to make Ivory Coast a stronghold of tennis in Africa and a credible player on the international stage," says President Sylvère Koyo .

An international crossroads

With over 70 professional players representing 25 nationalities , Abidjan has established itself as a crucial stop on the ATP Challenger Tour. This circuit, a true stepping stone to the elite (Masters 1000, 500, 250), allows talented players ranked between 50th and 300th in the world to compete for a place at the top level.

By restoring its image, the Ivorian Tennis Federation is no longer content to just watch the champions: it is giving itself the means to produce and welcome them, with the objective of permanently sitting at the table of the great nations of the little yellow ball within five years.