Jiaxing International Tennis Center. [Photo/Jiaxing International Tennis Center]

The Zhejiang City Tennis League opened on May 10 at the Jiaxing International Tennis Center and Jiaxing Central Park's tennis courts in East China's Zhejiang province.

The opening ceremony featured video greetings from former French Open champion Juan Carlos Ferrero, interactive performances, and a dynamic display of tennis aerobics. Following the ceremony, matches started across 20 courts at the two venues.

The newly launched provincial league is designed as a mass-participation tennis event that combines professional standards with public involvement, featuring nine divisions covering players aged 18 to 60.

This year's Jiaxing leg has attracted 537 participants from across the province. The competition will continue for two days before moving to Quzhou and Lishui for subsequent rounds, with the finals scheduled for late November.

Tennis has grown rapidly in Jiaxing in recent years through school programs, amateur training, and major competitions. International and national events, including the Davis Cup, national youth tournaments, and ITF competitions, have helped expand participation.

The city is also promoting the integration of sports, tourism, and consumer activities through tennis events, using competitions to showcase the city's culture and water-town scenery while supporting broader urban development.