Cebu is set to showcase its growing stature in the international sports scene as it hosts the Philippines’ first International Tennis Federation (ITF) Masters Tour, the MT200 Asmara Cup.
Scheduled from August 26 to September 6, 2025, this landmark event will be held at the Asmara Urban Resort & Lifestyle Village in Banilad, Cebu City, marking a historic milestone for Philippine tennis.
The ITF Masters Tour is a prestigious global series designed for players aged 30 and above, offering competitive opportunities to former professionals, national champions, and seasoned enthusiasts who continue to pursue their passion for tennis beyond the traditional age of peak competition.
Annually, the tour organizes over 500 tournaments in more than 80 countries, emphasizing the sport’s lifelong appeal and the value of active aging.
However, until now, the Philippines had yet to host an ITF Masters-level tournament, making the Asmara Cup a groundbreaking addition to the country’s sports calendar.
Koji Takeichi, ITF Masters Tour Panel Asia Representative, explained that the decision to bring the Masters Tour to Cebu stemmed from the fact that many players are already familiar with the city but have not previously had the chance to compete here.
This initiative opens a new chapter in expanding the Masters Tour’s reach to new venues within Asia, providing local and international players with fresh opportunities to engage in high-level competition.
The tournament has attracted over 100 players from at least twelve countries, including the Philippines, Japan, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Italy, Argentina, Canada, Taiwan, and Belgium.
This diverse roster of participants reflects the ITF Masters Tour’s global appeal and the tournament’s status as a competitive yet inclusive event that welcomes players of varying backgrounds and experiences.
Carlo Cordaro, founder and creative lifestyle director of Asmara, expressed pride in hosting the event, stating, “We’re honored to bring the ITF Masters Tour to Cebu. This event reflects not just our commitment to tennis, but also our belief in Cebu as a premier destination for world-class sports, wellness, and tourism experiences.”
His remarks highlight the strategic role the Asmara Cup plays in positioning Cebu as a hub for international sports and wellness, offering an ideal setting for athletes and visitors alike.
Tournament Director Ilyn Hupano echoed the enthusiasm, emphasizing the broader significance of the event.
“We’re expecting a vibrant mix of local and international players who embody the true spirit of competitive camaraderie. Beyond the games, the Asmara Cup is an opportunity for cultural exchange, tourism promotion, and age-inclusive community celebration. We invite everyone to be part of this historic milestone,” she added.
The Asmara Cup is also anticipated to boost Cebu’s local economy, particularly benefiting the hospitality sector. Hotel bookings, dining establishments, and cultural attractions are expected to see increased activity as players, officials, and visitors take time to explore the city’s vibrant offerings.
This aligns with the Department of Tourism’s mission to position the Philippines as a global center for sports and wellness tourism, leveraging events like the Asmara Cup to attract international visitors and enhance the country’s profile.
In addition to promoting sports tourism, the tournament advocates lifelong fitness and wellness, encouraging athletes and spectators alike to embrace active lifestyles regardless of age.
The event extends invitations to retirees, expatriates, and local tennis enthusiasts, fostering an environment where competitive tennis and Filipino hospitality come together.
Following the MT200 Asmara Cup, the Asmara Urban Resort & Lifestyle Village will continue its dedication to tennis development by hosting the 7th Asmara Open Tennis Tournament from November 6 to 16, 2025.
This continuation reflects Asmara’s commitment to nurturing tennis in the region and maintaining Cebu’s presence on the international tennis calendar.
Players interested in participating in the ITF Masters Tour MT200 Asmara Cup can register through the official ITF tournament page at https://www.itftennis.com/en/tournament/mt200-cebu-city/phi/2025/s-mt200-phi-2025-001/
Entry fees include a $10 USD ITF/IPIN service charge, $75 USD for singles plus doubles entry (with free doubles entry if also playing singles), and $40 USD for doubles only.
For partnership, sponsorship, or media inquiries, interested parties can contact the organizers via email at info@asmararesort.com or by phone at +63 917 637 7345. More information is available on their website, www.asmararesort.com.
As Cebu hosts this historic event, the city not only asserts itself on the global tennis map but also celebrates the enduring spirit of sport, community, and cultural exchange.
The ITF Masters Tour MT200 Asmara Cup promises to leave a lasting legacy for tennis in the Philippines and inspire generations to come.
