The 30th edition of the “Open RCT Barcelona 1899 – Sarajevo 2026” international junior tennis tournament was ceremoniously opened last night on the tennis courts at Koševo. This prestigious event brings together young tennis players from numerous European countries and, over the course of three decades, has become a symbol of the sporting friendship between Sarajevo and Barcelona.

The Tournament was officially opened by Bosnian-Herzegovinian tennis player Damir Džumhur. The ceremony was further graced by the presence of representatives from the Royal Tennis Club Barcelona (RCTB 1899): Xavier Cortadellas, a Board member, and Berta Tintoré, daughter of the late Juan María Tintoré—the long-time president of RCTB 1899 who, in 1996, helped launch the tennis project in Sarajevo alongside the City of Barcelona, ​​using tennis as a tool for reconstruction and connection.

Anita Vlašić, an advisor to the Minister, addressed the attendees on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Culture and Sports, stating that “thirty years is not merely a number; thirty years signifies perseverance, continuity, and trust.” She emphasized that the value of such events extends far beyond the competition itself, as they provide young people with experience, friendships, and belief in their own potential. Best wishes were extended to all the young tennis players for great matches, fair play, and lasting memories.

The Ministry is proud to support this tournament, recognizing it as a project that puts Sarajevo on the international sports map and confirms it as a city of sports, youth and tradition.