The 2026 International University Tennis Friendship Invitational & Cultural Exchange Week recently concluded at Shanghai's Xianxia Tennis Center, creating an unforgettable week of high-level competition and cross-cultural connection. The event brought together 54 student-athletes and coaches from 11 universities across 10 countries and regions, including McGill University (Canada), Monash University (Australia), Complutense University of Madrid (Spain), the Russian University of Sport (RUS, Russia), the University of Hong Kong (China), Soochow University (China), and East China University of Science and Technology (ECUST).

Co-organized by East China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) and Shanghai Juss Sports Development Group, the tournament delivered thrilling matches. Host ECUST and Australia's Monash University successfully defended their Women's and Men's Team titles. 

In individual events, first-time participant Ilia Mukhin from RUS claimed the Men's Singles championship, while ECUST's Tang Xiao secured the Women's Singles title. The doubles crowns were split, with Soochow University winning the Men's Doubles and an ECUST pair taking the Women's Doubles.

Men's Team Champions

Women's Team Champions

Men's Doubles Champions

Women's Doubles Champions

Men's and Women's Singles Champions

Beyond the baseline, the week was packed with immersive cultural experiences. Participants visited high-tech academic labs, tried their hand at traditional dragon dancing, and explored the classical gardens of nearby Suzhou. They also experienced modern Shanghai life firsthand, using shared bikes and public transit, and visited historical landmarks to gain a deeper perspective on contemporary China.

Highlighting ECUST's commitment to international education and sports, Vice-President Zhu Weihong urged global youth to use tennis as a bridge. He hoped they would enhance mutual understanding and deepen friendships to build a better world together.

Academician Zhu Weihong Delivers Address

Leonid Ivanov, a coach from the Russian University of Sport, described the event as "people-to-people diplomacy" that unites the globe. "It is a beautiful endeavor," he added. As they departed, Monash University team leader Inha Hwang said, "Meeting everyone, experiencing Chinese culture, and making global friends has been wonderful. I hope we can return next year!"

This invitational proved that sports can go far beyond the court, creating a global community where young people can share passions, learn from each other, and build lasting friendships. We look forward to welcoming more international students to ECUST next year to continue weaving harmony through tennis!