WTA Makarska Open 20th anniversary edition announced

(Photo: Rene Karaman)

Zagreb, 5 May 2026 – The WTA Makarska Open marks 20 years of tournaments in Croatia, organisers announced in Zagreb.

The anniversary edition, taking place from 1 to 7 June in Makarska, was unveiled in style, highlighting both the tournament’s growth and its increasing global reputation.

Tournament director Feliks Lukas said the 20th edition represents a significant confirmation of continuity, quality and development in Croatian women’s tennis, dating back to 1991.

He also revealed that this year’s Makarska Open has been voted the second best organised tournament in the world by players, standing out among 53 events and competing with major destinations such as Rio de Janeiro, Rome and Paris.

“This recognition clearly confirms the quality of our work and Makarska’s place on the global tennis map,” Lukas said.

Invitations have been extended to leading Croatian players including Ana Konjuh, Lucija Ćirić Bagarić and Tena Lukas, with Tara Würth and Lea Bošković also on the entry list.

Lucija Ćiric Bagarić, Mateo Đikić, Ana Konjuh (Photo: Rene Karaman)

Ćirić Bagarić welcomed the opportunity to compete again on familiar courts, emphasising the importance of the tournament for player development and progression.

Konjuh echoed the optimism, suggesting that a Croatian victory remains possible, while noting the consistently strong atmosphere in Makarska.

The 2026 edition will feature a competitive international line-up, led by Australia’s Maya Joint, currently the top-ranked entrant.

She is joined by Hungary’s Anna Bondar and Ukraine’s Oleksandra Oliynykova, alongside Germany’s Eva Lys and Switzerland’s Simona Waltert.

Other notable names include Darja Semenistaja, Rebecca Šramková and Dalma Gálfi, as well as rising talents such as Robin Montgomery and Xiyu Wang.

Lucija Ćiric Bagarić, Felix Lukas, Ana Konjuh (Photo: Rene Karaman)

Particular attention will be on former Top 50 player Tamara Zidanšek, a two-time WTA Bol Open champion, and Spain’s Andrea Lázaro García, winner of the first WTA Dubrovnik Open.

Officials highlighted the tournament’s evolution from its earlier base in Bol to its current home in Makarska, noting a steady rise in both quality and international significance.

Darko Vučić from the Ministry of Tourism and Sport said the event has played a key role in strengthening Croatia’s reputation as a host of high-quality sporting events, while also contributing to tourism promotion.

Tourism company Valamar confirmed its continued support, with a new agreement ensuring the tournament will remain in Makarska through 2028.

Ana Konjuh (Photo: Rene Karaman)

Board member Davor Brenko said the event successfully combines top-level sport with destination promotion, adding that ongoing investment aims to enhance the experience for players, visitors and the local community.

The anniversary launch also featured a cultural element, including a performance of Fly Me to the Moon by Split baritone Mateo Đikić, underlining the event’s blend of sport and entertainment.