The IC Rod Laver Junior Challenge Worldwide Finals - Daily Reports

Day Five

Day Five marked the final day of competition at the 2025 IC Rod Laver Junior Challenge Worldwide Finals. All play was held at RCP to bring the tournament to a close and after a week of fantastic tennis the final day was shaping up nicely with the title still in contention. Spain were in the lead with 4 wins, however a loss to Italy could leave up to three teams tied in the top spot, which would mean a series of mixed doubles match tiebreaks to determine the winner - an exciting day in store indeed!

South Africa vs. Argentina
Argentina started the day in second place, and safely on the podium. A win today would give them a shot at the title if Italy were able to defeat Spain. Motivated by this team Argentina got off to a great start comfortably winning their first three matches. South African number 1 boy Connor mounted an inspired come back with some excellent serving to force a match tiebreak but his Argentine opponent was too solid and sealed the tie 4-0. Despite not winning a tie during the week the South African team ended the day in high spirits and said how much they had enjoyed the challenge of playing on the clay courts.

Mexico vs. India
In a battle for fourth place, this tie finally gave us the mixed doubles shootout that had eluded the competition so far. India came out stronger in the singles, winning three out of four in straight sets. However, Mexico were not done yet and clinched the number 1 girls match to keep the tie alive. They then came into their own in the doubles, winning both on the trot to equal the match at 3-3. Excited to play some mixed doubles, a thrilling tiebreak ensued with it evenly matched until the final point, Mexico ultimately coming out on top 10-8.

Spain vs. Italy
The two centre courts featured the most anticipated match of the day between Spain and Italy, and a sizeable crowd of parents, kids from the RCP kids camps and other club members assembled to watch the spectacle. A victory for Spain would continue their unbeaten run and deliver them the title, whereas a win for Italy would mean a series of mixed doubles tiebreaks to decide the overall winner. Spain came out attacking for the win from the start to capture both number 2 matches. A third victory followed quickly from Spanish number 1 girl Paula with some impressive aggressive play to make the tie 3-0. Italy's fate then rested in the hands of Italian number 1 boy Petar and despite the mountain ahead he continued to fight hard with some explosive shots and deft net play. He took the first set, before Maxi from Spain fought back to seal the second on a tiebreak. The swings in momentum continued as Petar expertly regrouped to win the tiebreak 10-6 to rapturous applause. After a break for lunch, both teams went out on court for the doubles, with all the other teams watching on intently, especially Argentina whose enthusiastic support for Italy (who could keep their chances at the title alive) giving a very lively atmosphere! Both doubles matches were at a knife edge throughout with little separating the two pairs on either court. Italy in particular clearly had a game plan in mind and were getting to the net at every opportunity which proved to be a very effective tactic. However, Spain snuck the first sets on both courts 6/4 and 7/5 and the boys managed to cross the line first ultimately sealing the match, tie and 2025 ICJC Worldwide title for Spain in emphatic fashion!

Final standings:

The Final Evening
After the final doubles matches were complete, all teams took to the court for the trophy presentation. South Africa, Mexico and India were awarded medals for their efforts over the week and then attention turned to the podium positions. Each team took their places and was presented with bespoke medals as well as the marvellous glass trophy for champions Spain, handed out by IC Council representative Emily Arbuthnott, IC of Spain President Santiago Tintore, tournament director Ventura Durall and RCP Board member Carlos Homodes. A flurry of photos followed with all players looking very smart in their team tracksuits. After a final group picture the players mounted a sneak attack on tournament director Ventura who was hoisted into the air - never has a tournament director been so popular!

To end the week the official dinner took place at RCTB and everyone dressed up for the occasion. Mixed across the tables, the friendships that had been forged among the players were clear to see as the players laughed and conversed over the delicious food. After the meal, the team captains gave speeches to thank the tournament organisers and presented gifts from their respective ICs to Ventura Durall. This was followed by the awarding of the sportsmanship awards to Araadhya Kshitij from India and Camila Castracani from Italy. An important part of the IC Rod Laver Junior Challenge, this award is voted for by all the captains, supervisors and referees, and recognises two players who have shown exceptional sportsmanship and fairplay in the true spirit of the IC. It was wonderful to have in attendance at the dinner a number of notable guests from Spanish tennis, whose presence really elevated the evening - Lis Arilla, Honorary President of IC Spain; local 'Rod Laver' Balazs Taroczy, former ATP #12, 2x GS doubles champion and General Consul to Hungary in Barcelona; Abel Garcia, the Secretary of Sport in the Catalonian government; Jordi Tamayo, President of the Catalan Tennis Federation and VP of the Spanish Tennis Federation; Miguel Angel Palazon, President of the Aragon Tennis Federation; Carlos Homodes, President of Tennis at RCP; Carlos Rodriguez, Board Member at RCTB; and of course Santi Tintore, President of IC Spain. 

A massive thank you goes to both RCP and RCTB for hosting the event, it is very special for the players to have the chance to compete at such iconic venues. Also to the entire IC of Spain, and particularly Santi Tintore and Ventu Durall for putting together such a memorable event which ran smoothly throughout and had the greatest attention to detail for the players. To the team captains, for the leadership of their teams this week and support of the IC Rod Laver Junior Challenge event. And finally a big thank you to the players, who conducted themselves impeccably across the week, as well as showcasing some impressive tennis. The spirit of the IC is very much alive and well with the juniors!

Day Four

The matches of the day were split across the two clubs, with India taking on Argentina at RCTB and South Africa vs. Spain and Mexico vs. Italy held at RCP. After a number of days of very close competition, there were some more straightforward wins on Day 4. Paired with some injuries this meant some fun mixed doubles ties were paid in lieu of doubles when the overall outcome of the tie was already decided.

Spain vs. South Africa
On the RCP centre courts, front runners Spain took on South Africa, who were hunting their first win of the week. Spain raced ahead winning both number 2 matches in clinic fashion. Spain's number 1 boy Maxi fell behind 5-1 in his first set for the second day in a row, but miraculously recovered again to take match in a match tiebreak. Unfortunately the South African number 1 girl rolled her ankle and had to retire from her match but we hope she will be back in action tomorrow. After the singles, as the result was already determined and due to the many long days so far, it was decided to play a mixed doubles tiebreak to end the day. This gave the Spanish reserve girl a chance to play as well as some fun mixed doubles for the spectators.

Italy vs. Mexico
Team Italy again looked very at home on their native clay, showing great ball movement across all courts to secure four straight set victories over Mexico. This puts them in a great position to battle Spain tomorrow for a chance at the title. As the result was 4-0 after the singles, it was elected to play some mixed doubles to finish the day. Two hybrid Mexico/Italy teams (Mexaly vs. Itico!) were formed and played a fun set of mixed doubles.

India vs. Argentina
While the other two ties of the day were quite one-sided, this was a tough battle. In the first round of matches the scores were split one a piece after India took the girls match and Argentina the boys. This was despite an inspired espresso shot fuelled come back from the India number 2 boy. Argentina then grabbed the lead winning both number 1 matches, including a thrilling 10/7 win in the boys. After 3 match tiebreaks out of 4, attention turned to the doubles. Here the Argentina girls secured a convincing win to take the tie for Argentina. This was an important win as team Argentina could still be in line for the title results go their way on the final day.

Standings after Day 4:

After a slightly earlier finish for some of the teams and a much needed rest (perhaps even a siesta!) the players and captains hopped on a coach into the city to the famous Sagrada Familia. A personal tour guide, one in English and one in Spanish, showed the group around the museum and the church itself, which was incredibly impressive. Even the Barcelona locals were in awe of the building's beauty. Everyone enjoyed learning about Gaudi and spotting the nature inspired symbolism carved into the stone and hidden in the stained glass windows. After narrowly saving team Spain from boarding a Chinese tour bus rather than the tournament coach, it was back to the residence for a casual dinner and early night before the final day.

Day Three

The matches of the day were split across the two clubs, with South Africa taking on Italy at RCTB and Spain vs. India and Argentina vs. Mexico held at RCP.

South Africa vs. Italy
Italy continued their strong performances to capture the first three matches and take a 3-0 lead. South Africa's number one boy held his nerve to fork out a tough 7/6 7/6 victory to claw one rubber back and keep the tie alive going into the doubles. Here Italy proved to be too strong and took both doubles matches to secure the win 5-1.

Spain vs. India
This match was very closely contested and looked like it might be the first to head to a mixed doubles shoot-out after the singles finished at 2-2. India held a 2-1 lead but Spain's number 1 recovered from a 5-1 deficit in the first set to equal the tie and bring the momentum into Spain's favour. This continued into the doubles with Spain taking both to win 4-2. The wait for a mixed doubles shoot-out continues! 

Argentina vs. Mexico
Coming into the day with one win each under their belts, both teams were keen to gain a second victory. Scores were level at 1-1 after the first two matches after Argentina squeezed out a match tie-break win. Argentina's top players then showcased some excellent clay court tennis to secure comfortable wins and create a 3-1 lead. Team Mexico were able to pick up the girl's doubles but Argentina took the boys' doubles to win the tie 4-2.

Standings after Day 3:

For the evening's activities, the players headed down to the Olympic port by the sea and enjoyed a walk along the beach, catching glimpses of some beach tennis in action. They were then treated to a wonderful dinner together in the port where the bespoke menu even featured the IC logo! With each day it is wonderful to see friendships forming between the players, and this was evident today as the players all chatted and played games together over their dinner.

Day Two

The matches of the day were played at RCTB. Players, captains, parents and all supporters were all impressed by the tradition and beauty of the Club, as well as the warm reception from its members. We had a significant crowd in attendance, and Santi Tintoré was even interviewed by local TV.

Spain vs. Mexico

The day began with high-level tennis on show courts 1 and 2. The singles matches were hard-fought, but Spain proved too strong, winning the first four. After lunch, Mexico bounced back and claimed both doubles matches, but Spain secured the overall win with a 4–2 result.

South Africa vs. India

This match was held on the courts where the Conde de Godó tournament is usually played. India took the early lead by winning the first two singles. South Africa fought back to win the girls' singles 1, leaving the score 3–1 in India’s favour before lunch. The girls' doubles saw the return of injured player Maaya Rajeshwaran and ended in a thrilling Championship tiebreak, with India prevailing 11–9. India went on to win the boys' doubles as well, sealing a 5–1 victory.

Argentina vs. Italy

This tie was truly breathtaking. Every match had swings in momentum. After the first two singles, the tie was level at 1–1. Argentina then took the next two to lead 3–1. The doubles matches were moved to the show courts so everyone could enjoy the high-quality tennis being played. The boys' doubles concluded first in a tense Championship tiebreak, which Italy won 10–8 after trailing 8–4. On the adjacent court, Italy had taken the first set in the girls' doubles, but Argentina fought back and won the Championship tiebreak 10–5, taking the tie 4–2 overall.

Standings after Day 2:

After the matches, the players enjoyed a guided visit to the FC Barcelona Museum, which showcased the club’s rich history, legendary players, and iconic trophies. This was followed by traditional Spanish hospitality at a wonderful restaurant. It was heartwarming to see how the relationships between team members from different countries are evolving and growing stronger.

Day One

India vs. Italy
The day began with high-level tennis on Centre Court, featuring a rematch of last year’s final between India and Italy. Unfortunately, India’s top girl's player was sidelined due to injury, and a reserve had to step in. After the four singles matches, the tie was level at 2–2. The doubles were fiercely contested, but in the end, Italy came out on top, winning the tie 4–2.

Argentina vs. Spain
A classic clay-court showdown. The matches were extremely close, with 3 out of the 4 singles matches going to championship tie-breaks. Spain ultimately prevailed, winning the tie 4–2.

Mexico vs. South Africa
Mexico led 3–1 after the singles and sealed the tie 4–2. Notably, South Africa’s top girl's singles player overcame a tough travel ordeal—arriving at 1:00 AM after a delayed flight and lost luggage. Thanks to the generosity of teammates and other teams, she borrowed kit and rackets and still managed to compete.

After the matches, the players enjoyed exclusive private tours of Barcelona’s City Hall, a beautiful 14th-century Gothic building located in Plaça Sant Jaume, and the Generalitat, one of the few medieval buildings in Europe still serving as a seat of government. Both were specially opened for the occasion. The group then strolled through the city centre, taking in the vibrant atmosphere, before concluding the evening with a traditional Spanish dinner at Casa Cantabria.

Practice Day

• A fantastic day at the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona, where all teams trained and showcased an impressively high standard of play.
• The inauguration ceremony included all participating teams and featured speeches from Club President Pablo Sanchez, IC Spain President Santiago Tintoré, Tournament Director Ventura Durall and IC Council representative Felipe Bunster.
• A very special moment of the day was the philanthropy clinic, where players coached and interacted with two wonderful groups: a group of very young children, and a group from the Arapdis Foundation (Association for the Rehabilitation and Adaptation of People with Reduced Ability to Integrate into Society and the Workplace). Due to privacy considerations for some participants, we’re unable to share photos, but it was a truly meaningful and joyful experience for everyone involved.
• The Captains' Meeting ran smoothly, with no major issues raised. Notably, Jaume Campistol—Slam Finals Chair Umpire and Gold Badge official—is serving as the Honorary Referee for the tournament. Remarkably, his first-ever umpiring experience was at the Potter Cup!
• In addition to warming up, players took part in a fun “Off Court Challenge”, which was shared on social media. More of these to follow!
• In true IC spirit, one of the South African players, who was delayed in Amsterdam and arrived at 1 a.m. without her luggage, was able to compete thanks to the generosity of her teammates and other teams, who provided her with kit and rackets.

A huge thanks to the Real Club de Polo de Barcelona and the Real Club de Tenis Barcelona 1899 for being such wonderful hosts. Their world-class facilities, along with the warm hospitality and professionalism of their teams, have created an exceptional environment for all participants. Also to the IC Spain, who have gone above and beyond to organize a superb event. With the support of generous sponsors, two outstanding clubs, and an incredible team—Santi, Ventura Jr., Eva Bes, Eva Tuya, Ventura, and Jose Rafael—they have made sure every detail is covered: from airport pickups to physio sessions, team support, hotel transfers, and dinners.