Wales show great promise at Safir Open 2026

A 16-strong team recently travelled to Sweden to represent Wales at the Safir Open 2026.

The tournament provided an excellent opportunity for the squad to test themselves in a highly competitive environment and continue their development on the international stage.

The 16 players chosen competed in multiple events, with the Men’s and Women’s Singles starting on the Friday, alongside the U20s event. On the Saturday, the players competed in the U18s, U14s and the U23s events, while the U16s, U15s and U12s took place on the Sunday.

Throughout the event, the Welsh players showed determination and resilience, taking part in a range of matches across the different competition categories. The team faced a number of high-quality opponents, which led to several closely contested and very competitive matches.

These encounters allowed the players to challenge themselves tactically and technically, gaining important experience that will support their continued progress.

Encouragingly, Team Wales recorded victories across a variety of events during the tournament, reflecting the team’s hard work and preparation.

For a few selected players, this was their first international event and they will only look to build on the experience.

The highlights of the tournament came in a variety of categories.

Harri Docherty reached the L64 of the Men’s Singles after advancing through his group, also reaching the L32 of the U20s category.

In the U18s girls, Ffion Evans reached the L64, and Lily Walters reached the L32 before encountering tough opponents.

In the U23s event, both girls got to the L32, and on the boys’ side, Oliver Jordan was the star performer reaching the L32.

During the Sunday events, Oliver Harvey and Jenson Denton-Smith advanced to the knockout rounds in the U16s event with Amelie reaching the L32 of the girls’ event.

Evie Turner-Samuels was knocked out in the quarter-final of the U12s girls event with Dylan losing in the L32 of the U12s boys event.

Amelie David had an excellent win in the L32 in the U15s event before a tough 3-1 loss coming in the next round.

Overall, the trip to the Safir International was a positive and productive experience for the Welsh team. The competition not only delivered strong performances and notable wins but also provided invaluable match experience that will help the players as they continue to develop and represent Wales in future international events.

Congratulations to all that were selected!