Marrakech Hosts the 40th Edition of the Grand Prix Hassan II, a Prestigious Showcase of African Tennis and a Springboard for Morocco’s Next Generation
From March 30 to April 5, 2026, the Royal Tennis Club of Marrakech will come alive with the 40th edition of the Grand Prix Hassan II, an exceptional event that has established itself over four decades as one of the major fixtures of international tennis. As the only ATP Tour tournament held on the African continent, this iconic competition once again confirms Morocco’s central role in promoting tennis in Africa and around the world.
On the occasion of this symbolic anniversary, the tournament returns with renewed momentum, combining sporting tradition, international ambition, and strong support for the new generation of Moroccan tennis. Since its creation, the Grand Prix Hassan II has stood as a true showcase of the Kingdom’s sporting expertise, attracting renowned players, tennis enthusiasts, and visitors from around the world to Marrakech each year.
For one week, the ochre city transforms into Africa’s tennis capital, offering spectators high-level matches played on the legendary clay courts of the Royal Tennis Club. Over the years, the tournament has helped firmly place Morocco on the global map of professional tennis while promoting the country as a destination for sporting excellence.
For this anniversary edition, the organizers have sought to go beyond the purely sporting dimension by offering an even more immersive and festive experience. The event aims to turn Marrakech into a genuine international crossroads of sport and culture, with a modernized organization and a welcoming atmosphere designed to appeal both to tennis enthusiasts and the wider public.
One of the highlights of this 40th edition will be the spotlight placed on Morocco’s rising tennis generation. In a strong strategic decision, all of the tournament’s wild cards will be awarded to Moroccan players, a first in the history of the competition. This choice reflects a clear commitment to supporting the emergence of new talents and offering them the exceptional opportunity to compete against some of the best players on the ATP circuit.
Competing in front of their home crowd will give these young players the chance to reach an important milestone in their careers and inspire a new generation of tennis fans. The objective is clear: to make the Grand Prix Hassan II a true springboard for Moroccan tennis and a driving force behind its future development.
This historic edition is also guided by an iconic figure of Moroccan tennis: Hicham Arazi. The former Moroccan champion, recognized on the international stage and now captain of the national Davis Cup team, serves as the tournament director. His presence symbolizes the transmission between generations and reflects the desire to share top-level experience with the country’s young prospects.
In a move aimed at turning the celebration into a genuine popular event, the organizers have also decided to grant free access to the tournament throughout its duration. This strong initiative seeks to bring the public closer to tennis and allow as many people as possible to take part in this major sporting event.
Through this 40th edition, the Grand Prix Hassan II more than ever confirms its status as a jewel of African tennis while opening a new chapter focused on the future of Moroccan tennis and the emergence of its champions of tomorrow.
Translated from Abderrazzak Boussaid’s French article – le7tv
