Opening Grass Court Tournament Launches Rye’s 2026 Season in Style

Under clear blue skies and soaring summer temperatures, Rye Lawn Tennis Club’s 2026 grass court season got underway in spectacular fashion on Saturday 23rd May with the annual Opening Grass Court Tournament.

The day was made possible thanks to the tremendous efforts of Freddie and Adam, who spent several days meticulously preparing the courts. Their hard work ensured that players enjoyed some of the finest grass courts in the South-East, providing the perfect stage for a memorable afternoon of tennis.

With immaculate whites on display and chalk dust flying from the baselines, competitors battled through three groups for the opportunity to claim the prestigious Inflatable Rother Cup. The standard of tennis throughout the day was exceptional, with plenty of exciting rallies, deft drop shots and powerful serving keeping spectators entertained.

Rye’s own Charlotte Draper and Johnnie Owen comfortably topped their group, while visitors Alejandra Botbol and Tommoso Nocchi impressed on the front courts, showcasing a combination of sharp volleys, accurate serving and clever court craft to edge out the local competition.

The highlight of the afternoon, however, came in the thrilling deciding match between the Stubbs and the Wallises. In a closely fought contest, Sophie and Kate produced some elegant tennis and played a crucial role in keeping their respective pairs in contention throughout. With the result hanging in the balance until the final stages, the Wallises ultimately prevailed, much to the delight of those watching.

It was particularly pleasing to see the return of David Wallis to the Rye lawns, with flashes of his trademark magic helping to secure victory in one of the most entertaining matches of the day.

A fantastic afternoon of tennis, camaraderie and summer sunshine provided the perfect start to the grass court season, and the club looks forward to many more memorable occasions throughout the summer.