1 “A new story that begins”
“This change of room is stimulating. It’s a new story that’s beginning,” confided Arzel Mevellec, this Tuesday, January 6, during the presentation of the 17th edition of the QBO Tennis Open. Little Maé, his two-year-old son, who bursts into the screen on the 2026 poster, will perhaps be of this generation that the director of the open is calling for to write a new chapter. “I dream that a little local guy, a ball boy, will one day put his name on the honor roll. »
An accomplishment for the director who wants to preserve the “friendliness” of the event, carried out by 80 volunteers. “Professionalism is a showcase that must serve local clubs. » With the large hall, the event has a new setting commensurate with the seventh French tournament. “We are banking on discovery, this will be a major asset in attracting new audiences. »
With president Yves-Marie Rolland, the director is experiencing his second move after that of the tennis club to the Penvillers park. “It will be a booster of attractiveness and a source of pride for the territory,” considers Christelle Quéré, Quimper sports assistant.
2 The large hall tested by the tournament
This will be one of the attractions of this edition: the metamorphosis of the Kostum Park hall – It’s our turn during the tournament. The one carried out at the exhibition center was already spectacular. The one promised for this edition should make an impression. Two courts will be set up, including “an extraordinary central court, worthy of the most beautiful enclosures”. Two training courts will be made available by TC Ergué-Gabéric.
Eight vehicles will transport the players. Several restaurant and bar areas will be accessible, arranged and decorated in several areas of the room including a large box with a direct view of the central court. A hairdresser/barber will be open near the court as well as a massage stand.
This event also remains a popular moment for economic players to network. On January 29, the wishes of the Cornouaille Economic Interclub will take place. A moment awaited by the 125 partners of the event. This open, which aims to be popular, will reserve Wednesday January 28 for Kids Day with an invitation extended to tennis clubs in Finistère. Nearly 1,500 students are expected.
3 The seventh French tournament
The QBO Tennis Open is the seventh French tournament and holds its rank at the national level. To appear in the main draw of this ATP 125, you have to show your credentials with several Top 100 like the four headliners: the American Aleksandar Kovacevic (58th in the world), the French Quentin Halys (91st), Benjamin Bonzi (99th) and the Spaniard, Pedro Martinez (96th). This edition will still depend on the results of the Australian Open with the arrival (or absence) of new players.
With a budget of €850,000, this edition will receive €203,900 including €30,460 for the winner. “It’s 125 points at the ATP,” recalls Arzel Mevellec who compares it with the 90 points for a third round in a grand slam.
The Quimper staff also continues to promote tennis in Africa with the organization of five tournaments. Three Rwandan interns will be present during this edition.
Practical
Ticket office. From Tuesday to Thursday, €8 for adults and €4 for children (6 to 17 years old), students and Korrigo card holders. Weekend rates, from Friday to Sunday: €15 for adults and €8 for children, students and Korrigo card holders. Week pass: €60. Website: opendequimper.com