Chennai to get free tennis courts in public park, GCC launches pilot

Tennis in Chennai may soon shed its elite tag as Greater Chennai Corporation plans two free public courts in Perungudi. The move aims to make the sport accessible to youngsters and enthusiasts who cannot afford expensive club memberships. (AI image)

The pilot project will come up at Thirumalai Nagar Park II and III in Perungudi. These courts will be open to the public at no cost, offering residents a rare opportunity to play tennis without booking premium private facilities. (AI image)

GCC will construct clay courts measuring 78 feet in length, with standard widths for singles and doubles. Seating areas, floodlights for evening matches, and a storage room for equipment will also be part of the infrastructure. (AI image)

Officials say many youngsters aspire to learn tennis but lack access to courts. With most facilities limited to affluent schools or private clubs, this initiative aims to bridge the gap and encourage wider participation. (AI image)

Zonal chairman S V Ravichandran noted that private tennis courts charge high booking fees, while SDAT facilities are often reserved for professionals. The new courts aim to give common residents a fair chance to play. (AI image)

While the courts will initially remain free, GCC may consider outsourcing management if demand rises for professional training. For now, a contractor will be appointed to ensure proper upkeep and smooth operations. (AI image)

Residents and sports enthusiasts have long sought affordable tennis facilities in the area. Many youngsters with interest in the sport lack access due to high private club fees. The civic body said repeated requests from the public led to approval of the project. (AI image)

Tennis players urge GCC not to stop with the pilot project. With budding players in multiple neighbourhoods, there is growing demand to replicate free public courts across Chennai to democratise the sport. (AI image)