POM Racquets Club Open returns for its ninth edition

The Port Moresby Racquets Club [POMRC] Open has returned for its ninth edition this weekend, continuing its tradition of bringing together tennis and squash enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.

First held in 2016 following the establishment of POMRC after the 2015 Pacific Games, the annual event has grown into a major fixture on Papua New Guinea’s sporting calendar. Despite a hiatus in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament has consistently drawn strong participation and community support.

This year’s tournament features over 100 entries across both tennis and squash, including players from regional centers such as Lae and Mt. Hagen, and even international participants from Brisbane and Cairns.

In tennis, over 45 players from Port Moresby and Lae will compete in a wide range of categories, including the men’s and ladies open, men’s and ladies doubles, mixed legends, and junior divisions for under-18 and U14 boys and girls.

Reigning champions and sibling duo Sugar Ray and Colita Hakena will return to defend their titles in the men’s and ladies open, while rising talents like Lavu Ivuyo, Pauline Hyun, Christopher Lam, and Kaiulo - the "special K's" - are expected to challenge strongly.

The squash competition also promises high-level action, with PNG representatives taking part in the men’s, ladies, and mixed Doubles. Notably, 14-year-old Joseph Yominao Jr will compete in the men’s open, looking to make his mark against more experienced players.

Family pairings, such as mother-and-daughter duo Skye and Leonie Cox in the B Mixed Doubles, add a heartwarming element to the event.

The junior divisions continue to be a highlight, showcasing the success of POMRC’s youth development programs. Many young athletes who came through these programs have gone on to represent Team PNG on the international stage.

POMRC President Sir Robin Fleming acknowledged the sponsors whose support makes the event possible:

"Thank you to the POMRC Open 2025 sponsors for their direct support of the Open this year and to all our POMRC sponsors who provide year-round support."

The POMRC open also plays a key role in national squad selection, with Tennis PNG and the PNG Squash Federation considering performances at the event as part of their evaluation processes.

With fierce competition, emerging talents, and a strong community spirit, the 2025 POMRC Open looks set to deliver an exciting weekend of racquet sports in the nation’s capital.