PH aces get ATP Challenger wild cards

A big stage is being set for the country’s tennis hotshots.

Philippine Tennis Association chair Jean Henri Lhuillier Thursday said the staging of the ATP Challenger Philippines this weekend will be a big boost not just for local tennis but for the present crop of young players as well.

“I’m so happy with the opportunity to hold this world-class tournament here,” said Lhuillier. “Now (Filipino aces) have a chance to test their skills against high-level opposition without spending so much to travel abroad.”

Sixteen-year-old Alberto Lim Jr., Jeson Patrombon, 22, and Francis Casey Alcantara, 23, received wild-card spots in the main draw of the $75,000 ATP event strewn with regular tour campaigners just outside of the world’s top 100.

Patrombon, Alcantara and fellow Davis Cupper Ruben Gonzales also got wild-card slots in doubles. Alcantara will partner with Indonesian Christopher Rungkat while Gonzales will team up with Briton Darren Walsh.

Gonzales got a wild card in qualifying along with national team mainstay Patrick John Tierro and Fil-Am Mico Santiago.

Qualifying round will be on Saturday and Sunday at the newly renovated Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.