The 2026 NSW Country Championships will be remembered as one of the most successful editions of the event in recent history, with more than 400 players travelling to Wagga Wagga from across New South Wales for a week of outstanding tennis, lasting friendships and renowned country hospitality.
Played under blue skies throughout the week, the championships showcased the very best of regional tennis. High-quality competition was matched by the unique social atmosphere that has made the event a highlight of the country tennis calendar for generations.
The Open events delivered tennis of the highest standard. In the Men’s Singles, top seed Ashton McLeod claimed the title in his final tournament appearance in New South Wales before departing for South Florida to begin his college tennis career. McLeod capped off his campaign with a victory over eighth seed Noah Pociask, who enjoyed a breakout tournament and produced a series of impressive performances on his way to the final.
The Women’s Singles title went to Gloria Jovic, who overcame defending champion Emily Johnson in a high-quality championship match. Jovic, now entering the second year of her own college tennis journey, returned home to Australia to visit family and made the most of the opportunity, capturing one of the most prestigious titles in country tennis.
The McLeod family enjoyed further success in the junior events. Brydan McLeod secured the Under 16 Singles title, while younger brother Dustin McLeod claimed the Under 10 Singles championship, capping off a remarkable week for one of country tennis’s most talented and successful families.
One of the standout moments of the tournament came away from the traditional draw sheets with the introduction of the inaugural 1 Point Slam. A total of 128 players, ranging from the Under 10s through to the Under 18s, packed the courts for a fun-filled night of laughs, high-fives and spirited competition. In a fitting finale, brothers Brydan and Dustin McLeod faced off for the inaugural title, with Brydan emerging victorious to become the first recipient of the 1 Point Slam trophy.
While fierce competition was a feature across all age groups, the friendships and connections formed throughout the week remained at the heart of the event’s success. For many players and families, the championships continue to provide a unique opportunity to reconnect with friends from across regional New South Wales and create memories that extend well beyond the tennis court.
Open’s Tournament Director Brett Bevan said the event continued to embody everything that makes country tennis special.
“The Country Championships are far more than just a tennis tournament. For many country kids, it’s their opportunity to reconnect with friends from right across New South Wales, make new friendships and experience everything that is great about our sport. The quality of tennis this year was exceptional, but just as important was the sense of community and connection that was on display throughout the week. To welcome more than 400 players and their families to Wagga Wagga and see them leave with great memories makes this one of the most rewarding events we deliver each year.”
With strong participation, exceptional tennis and an outstanding atmosphere both on and off the court, the 2026 NSW Country Championships once again reinforced its reputation as one of the premier events in regional tennis, celebrating not only competitive excellence but also the community spirit that continues to make the tournament so special.
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