52nd Edition of the Istarska Rivijera Tennis Tournament in Poreč
The oldest international tennis tournament in Croatia, the Istarska Rivijera (Istrian Riviera), is gearing up for its 52nd edition in Poreč from March 3rd to March 10th. Pre-qualifications kick off on February 29th, with the tournament being hosted once again by Valamar’s facilities – the Pical Tennis Center and the Diamant Tennis Center.
This traditional event, part of the ITF tournament series and serving as a stepping stone in men’s professional tennis, will welcome hundreds of young tennis players to compete in a strong international field. With a prize pool of $15,000, the Istarska Rivijera offers not only a significant financial reward but also the chance for players to earn valuable ATP points, often marking their first steps into the professional circuit. Indeed, this tournament has been instrumental in the early careers of many successful tennis players worldwide, including Croatian sports legend Goran Ivanišević.
Dino Prižmić
One such rising star who utilized the spring tournaments in Istria for his ascent is 18-year-old Dino Prižmić from Split. His rapid rise to the global elite began two years ago at the Pical Tennis Center in Poreč, where he secured his first victories on the ITF World Tour, earning his maiden ATP points. In 2023, he clinched the championship trophy in Poreč, followed by a brief return to the junior circuit where he triumphed at Roland Garros two months later. In August, he secured his first ATP Challenger Tour title, and in September, he made his debut for the Croatian Davis Cup team. Alongside Prižmić, players like Matej Dodig, Luka Mikrut, and Mili Poljičak, the junior Wimbledon champion of 2022, will grace the courts of the Istarska Rivijera.
Young Talents Forging the Path
“ITF tournaments are pivotal in every tennis player’s career, and I am proud that for the 52nd consecutive year, we will have the opportunity to witness young talents forging their ATP path right here at our tournament,” said Branimir Horvat, the tournament director. “The Istarska Rivijera is the result of a traditionally successful collaboration between the City of Poreč, the Poreč Tourist Board, the Tar-Vabriga Tourist Board, Valamar Riviera, and TK Top Spin. Together, we work to ensure that our guests, especially the players who come here to play their first matches, enjoy an unforgettable sporting event.”
Symbol of Sporting Excellence
The Istarska Rivijera is not just a tennis tournament; it is a symbol of Croatia’s sporting excellence and cultural heritage. Over more than half a century, this prestigious event has not only attracted the world’s finest tennis players but has also become an integral part of Croatia’s sports calendar. Its presence enriches the tourist offerings of Poreč and the wider region, while also promoting Croatia as a destination that cherishes sporting values, international cooperation, and friendship. Each year, the Istarska Rivijera brings together people from different parts of the world, creating a multicultural and dynamic environment that transcends the boundaries of the tennis court. Beyond its sporting spirit, this tournament encourages sports enthusiasts and tourists to explore the beauty of Croatia and indulge in the rich cultural diversity the country has to offer.
Schedule
Pre-qualifications for the tournament will take place from February 29th to March 2nd, with the qualifications running from March 3rd to March 5th. The main part of the tournament commences on March 5th and will continue until Sunday, March 10th.
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