Tennis ACT open to hosting new domestic competition

The global coronavirus pandemic has shutdown sport across the world, with the ATP and WTA suspending the professional circuit until at least July 13.

With strict travel bans and no guarantee of professional tennis resuming overseas this year, Tennis Australia has begun looking internally for content.

The governing body is exploring models for a domestic competition to fill the void in 2020, with a format similar to the Australian Tennis League looming as a likely option.

Kachel says Tennis ACT is looking forward to hosting more events once the sport returns, but concedes there's still a long way to go before anything can be set in stone.

"Canberra is always open to opportunities and if any arise, then we'll explore them and put our hand up to host different things," Kachel said.

"But it's probably too early to be speaking about these things just yet, we've got to make sure we get through this crisis first and everyone is safe and well."

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World No.43 John Millman was among those pushing for Tennis Australia to introduce a domestic competition if the country emerges from the coronavirus shutdown before the rest of the world.

But the Queenslander isn't the only one itching for tennis content.

Tennis fans in the capital have not seen any professional action this year, following the relocation of January's Canberra International and cancellation of its claycourt competition.

If domestic tournaments get the green light to start by July, Kachel says it could be difficult to host one at Lyneham Tennis Centre due to the limited indoor court space.

However, Tennis ACT would be open to hosting professional tournaments in spring.

"If there are opportunities in October and the like, there might be things that Canberra could certainly put its hand up for and be competitive," Kachel said.

"I think there's a lot of creative ideas out there and it does look like international travel will be on hold for a while.

"I'm open to any of those ideas and I know there's been various ones circulated, certainly domestic tennis comes back soon.

"Fingers crossed. Canberra has a great reputation for hosting world class events and we know players love coming here, the facilities are fantastic.

"We've got a brilliant team and an army of amazing volunteers."

Tennis ACT has had to cancel its autumn league and is considering different models for winter, dependent on government advice and social distancing restrictions.

One-on-one coaching is the only tennis activity that has been recommended for continued play at this time.