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Bratislava Open 2026 will attract world-class tennis once again: the organizers expect a strong player field and great interest from fans
The main figures of the Bratislava Open 2026 press conference. From left: J. Habo, R. Zrubakova, M. Vajda, and B. Stankovic.
BRATISLAVA – The organisers of the international Bratislava Open tennis tournament unveiled details of the 24th edition of the event at a press conference held at the TK Slovan Bratislava venue. Speakers included Tournament Director Branislav Stankovič, Tournament Manager Marián Vajda, TK Slovan Bratislava Secretary Radka Zrubáková, and Jaroslav Habo, Director of UniCredit Bank, the tournament’s title partner.
Tournament Director Branislav Stankovič opened the press conference by thanking the event’s partners for their long-term support and noting that UniCredit Bank has been a partner of the tournament for the fourth consecutive year.
According to Jaroslav Habo, UniCredit Bank’s support extends beyond sport itself and reflects a commitment to fair play, partnership building, and creating opportunities for young talents.
"We see events like this as a place where sporting excellence, fairness, and long-term partnerships come together,” Habo stated.
Radomíra Zrubáková attended the press conference for the first time and highlighted the significance of the tournament for TK Slovan Bratislava. She recalled that the idea of hosting the event at the club’s venue first emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is a great honour for our club to host the Bratislava Open. From the very beginning of our cooperation, the club has been ready to organise an event of this level and offers facilities capable of providing high-quality conditions for both players and visitors,” said Zrubáková.
Tournament Manager Marián Vajda emphasized that the Bratislava Open is one of the region’s traditional tennis events and will celebrate its 24th edition this year. He also praised the high sporting quality of the player field.
With prize money exceeding €160,000, the tournament ranks among the most highly endowed outdoor Challenger events of the summer season. The entry list features several players from the world’s top 100, including Alexander Shevchenko and American player Emilio Nava. Another notable name is Austrian representative Sebastian Ofner, who previously reached a career-high ranking of World No. 37.
Vajda also highlighted the participation of Slovak player Alex Molčan, noting that a strong performance on home soil could be an important step in his return among the world’s elite.
“Every year we have an exceptionally strong field, and it is difficult to say which edition has been the strongest. I am delighted that once again we will welcome world-class players, Slovak representatives, and promising young talents,” Vajda stated.
Marian Vajda during interviews with journalists at the Bratislava Open press conference.
The organisers also announced the participation of Australian player Thanasi Kokkinakis, who reached a ranking of World No. 65 in 2023. His presence further confirms the high quality of this year’s field and adds another attractive international name to the tournament.
The Tournament Director also recalled that many players have used the Bratislava Open as a stepping stone to success on the ATP Tour. Among them is Czech star Jiří Lehečka, along with several other players who significantly improved their rankings after competing in Bratislava.
“We are pleased that players enjoy returning to Bratislava. Shevchenko is one such example, as he knows the tournament environment well and has chosen to compete here again,” said Stankovič.
Qualifying matches will begin on Sunday, featuring 24 players, with six advancing to the main draw. Slovak players Karol Miloš and Andrej Martin will also compete in the qualifying rounds. The main tournament will start on Monday and conclude with the finals the following Sunday. Live coverage will be provided by STVR.
Admission to all matches will once again be free of charge. Organisers have prepared a new grandstand, quality refreshments, and a programme of activities for children. “Our goal is to improve the spectator experience every year and make the event increasingly attractive to the general public,” said the Tournament Director.
During the media Q&A session, organisers confirmed that wild cards for the main draw had been awarded to Slovak representatives Jozef Kovalík and Tomáš Lánik. The Slovak Tennis Association also granted wild cards to Norbert Gombos and Lukáš Pokorný.
When asked about the tournament favourites, organisers stressed that the field is exceptionally balanced. Nevertheless, they expressed high hopes for Alex Molčan, who could benefit from the support of the home crowd.
Good mood after the official part. From left: tournament director Branislav Stankovic, Natalia Vajdova, and Jaroslav Habo from UniCredit Bank chatting after the press conference.
The organisers also continue to support charitable initiatives, which have become a traditional part of the Bratislava Open. This year’s event will once again feature a charitable component, including an auction of a tennis racket donated by current World No. 3 Alexander Zverev, with proceeds going to a charitable cause.
In closing, Branislav Stankovič thanked all partners, particularly title partner UniCredit Bank, main partner Kooperativa Insurance, and official partner Sovereign Invest Foundation, as well as the media and fans for their continued support.
The Bratislava Open 2025 once again promises high-quality tennis, renowned international names, and an opportunity to watch future stars of world tennis compete live in Bratislava.
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