There has been huge interest shown in the Deloitte Open Tennis and Pickleball Tournament, with the tennis competition starting at Pomander Gate on Friday.

Seventy-two players have registered for the hugely popular event, which has been taking place since 1976 and with Deloitte becoming official sponsors in 2006.

Pickleball was first added to this tournament in 2021 with Deloitte keen to include a sport that was growing swiftly across North America.

Sophie Campeau, a member of the tennis committee at Pomander Gate, is excited by the high number of entries and revealed that some categories for the pickleball competition, which runs from June 14 to 18, are already full with June 7 being the official deadline for entries .

“The Pomander Gate tennis committee is thrilled to see so many tennis players participating across various categories showcasing their passion and skill,’’ Campeau said.

“Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Deloitte for their support, making this event possible and fostering a vibrant tennis community.”

John Johnston, chief executive officer of the Bermuda and Caribbean Deloitte , expressed his organisation’s delight at their continued association with the yearly event.

“Deloitte is proud to return as the title sponsor of Pomander Gate’s annual tournament,’’ Johnston said.

“As a sponsor for 18 years, we’re pleased to see how the Open has grown into a staple event within Bermuda’s racket calendar.

“With the addition of the pickleball category, the tournament reflects the rise in popularity of the sport not only in Bermuda but around the world.

“We’re excited to see some excellent tennis and pickleball play out over the next few weeks, and wish the best of luck to all the players and organisers of the Deloitte Open.”

Some of the island best tennis players will compete in both singles and doubles events, with members of the island’s Davis Cup team, who are preparing for their trip to Paraguay in two weeks, getting some action before heading off on their travels.

Jack Keyes, the men’s champion last year, has received a bye as the No 1 seed, which guaranteed him a spot in the quarter-finals. Keyes should expect stiff competition from Tariq Simons, last year’s runner-up, and James Finnigan.

Up-and-coming stars such as Chase McCrimmon and Jaden Jones are also in the mix for the men’s title with 16 players registered.

Nadhira Durham is the women’s top seed, with her closest rivals expected to come from Alexcie Burrows and Jess Charles. Shelby Madeiros, who just completed her undergraduate studies at Siena college in New York, has registered only for the doubles, where she will be partnered by Durham.