Tennis Summer by Goran Ivanišević: Split Set to Become International Tennis Hub in August

Split will take center stage in the regional sporting calendar during the final two weeks of August 2026, hosting the Tennis Summer by Goran Ivanišević project. The international tennis initiative combines elite coaching, player development, and a major public event, all led by Wimbledon champion and Croatian legend Goran Ivanišević.

The event has a clear multi-layered goal: developing young players, promoting sport and healthy living, strengthening international cooperation, and positioning Split as a leading sports and tourism destination.

“This is a project we’ve been developing over the past three months. We even joked at times about whether we’d give up, but we never did,” said Ivanišević. “I want to thank the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, especially Minister Tonči Glavina, and Mayor Tomislav Šuta for their support. We’ve worked together to bring tennis back to Split, because tennis and Split have always belonged together.”

The event runs from August 17 to 29, culminating in a spectacular exhibition match at the iconic Prokurative square. “Playing tennis in the very center of Split has always been a dream of mine,” Ivanišević added. Player line-ups are yet to be confirmed, though anticipation is already building.

He also highlighted the key figures behind the idea: “This wouldn’t have been possible without my wife Nives and our close friend Ana Komar, who initiated the project.”

The program is built around two main components. The first is an international tennis camp running from August 17–29, bringing together more than 100 participants from Croatia and abroad. Players will train in small groups based on age and level, with a comprehensive programme covering technical and tactical skills, fitness, and mental preparation under Ivanišević and his expert coaching team.

The second is the final showcase on August 29 at Prokurative, a major public event featuring an exhibition match, live concert, and entertainment programme. A temporary tennis court with grandstands will be constructed in the heart of the city.

Ivanišević, the 2001 Wimbledon champion, will lead the program as head coach and mentor, supported by a team of licensed coaches and conditioning experts with international experience.

Training will take place across two key locations: Tennis Club Split 1950, a historic seaside venue, and Žnjan, a newly developed sports and recreation zone offering top-tier facilities.

Organizers emphasized the project’s long-term vision: “Our goal is to return tennis to where it belongs. Split has a rich tennis tradition, producing players like Nikola Pilić, Željko Franulović, Goran Ivanišević, Mario Ančić, and Mate Pavić. That legacy drives us forward.”

The project brings together young athletes from multiple countries, encouraging exchange, building international connections, and boosting Croatia’s visibility on the European tennis stage.

Government support remains strong. Krešimir Šamija from the Ministry of Tourism and Sport highlighted ongoing investment in tennis infrastructure and development, noting nearly €9 million invested in tournaments this year alone.

Mayor Tomislav Šuta underlined the city’s backing: “We thank Goran Ivanišević for bringing tennis back to Split. He is a true icon who has promoted both Croatia and our city worldwide. This project will gather over 100 young players, and we are committed to supporting sport through infrastructure and new initiatives.”

Tennis Summer by Goran Ivanišević is a significant step in reinforcing Split’s place on the international sporting map.