Professional tennis is making a return to Bermuda after the Association of Tennis Professionals approved a slot in the 2025 calendar for an ATP Challenger Tour event to take place on the island in March.

The tournament, scheduled for March 23 to 30 at a venue still to be decided, will be produced by Same-Group Bermuda, a company which organises sporting and arts events and also manages professional athletes.

Grégory Chambaz, the founder and chief executive officer of Same-Group, is a former professional tennis player, who competed twice in the XL Bermuda Open.

There has been no professional tournament on the island since 2008 when the XL Bermuda Open sponsorship ceased after 15 years.

“Professional tennis has been a huge miss in Bermuda and we’re delighted to showcase its return at this elite level,” Chambaz said.

“It is our mission to produce a first-class sporting event as well as incorporate a charitable element to help further the development of youth tennis in Bermuda.

“The tournament will also be a fantastic addition to the tourism calendar, highlighting Bermuda as a sports destination.”

Michael Wolfe, the Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association president, welcomed the return of high-level tennis to the island.

“We are thrilled to support the return of professional tennis to Bermuda,’’ he said.

“This exciting event will showcase world-class talent, offering a unique opportunity for local fans, enthusiasts, and aspiring young players to experience the thrill of top-level tennis.

“We look forward to a week filled with unforgettable matches and a celebration of the sport in our beautiful island.”

The tournament will feature both singles and doubles draws as well as qualifying rounds. Qualifying matches are scheduled to start on March 23. The main draw is due to commence two days later, while the finals will take place on March 30.

According to the organisers, there will be various sponsor and children’s tennis clinics with the professionals throughout the week of the tournament.