After a two-decade absence, professional tennis returns to Costa Rica with the M25 tournament, which will be held from February 15 to 22 at the Costa Rica Country Club in Escazú. This event marks a historic moment for the national sport, bringing together competitors from more than 25 countries and offering an international showcase for emerging players.

The tournament director, Kenneth Thome, highlighted the importance of this competition within the international calendar. This tournament will have a total prize pool of $30,000, with the singles champion taking home $4,600. In addition, as part of the ITF World Tennis Tour, the M25 awards points for the ATP ranking. The winner of the singles draw will earn 25 points, which are essential for climbing the rankings and getting closer to higher-level tournaments.

International figures and national talent

Daniel Milavsky of the United States, ranked 397th in the world, tops the list of favorites as the tournament’s top seed.

The national team includes Jesse Flores, an experienced Costa Rican tennis player with a long career on the professional circuit, and Julián Garnier, the country’s most promising young player, who enters the main draw thanks to a wildcard invitation. For Garnier, this will be an invaluable opportunity to compete against high-level opponents and gain international experience.

Format and competition schedule

The action begins on February 15 and 16 with the singles qualifying rounds. Of the 32 players competing in the qualifiers, eight will advance to the main draw, which will feature 32 players and begin on Tuesday. This tournament will conclude on February 22 with the finals. Sixteen pairs will participate in the doubles competition.

Matches will be played on indoor hard courts, ensuring stable and competitive conditions. Within the ITF circuit structure, the M25 serves as a bridge to higher-level tournaments, such as those on the ATP Challenger Tour. Although the prize money increased from $25,000 to $30,000 in 2026, the category retains its M25 designation.

Free admission and economic impact

One of the most appealing aspects of the tournament is that admission will be free for the public, with parking available on site. This will allow fans and families to enjoy high-level tennis at no cost, thereby promoting the growth of the sport in the country.

Beyond the sporting spectacle, the tournament represents a boost for Escazú’s local economy. The arrival of players, coaches, and international delegations generates demand for hotels, transportation, and services, positioning the area as an emerging destination for sports tourism.

Event Details:

  • Location: Costa Rica Country Club, Escazú.
  • Format: Main draw of 32 players in Singles and 16 pairs in Doubles.
  • Singles draw: 32 players, 8 qualify for the main draw, February 15 and 16.
  • Admission: Free with parking available.
A firm step towards the future

The Costa Rican Tennis Federation supports this initiative as part of a strategy to attract more international events in the future. After 20 years without hosting a professional tournament of this category, the return of the M25 not only revitalizes tennis in the country, but also projects Escazú as a venue capable of organizing world-class competitions.

Sensorial Sunsets