The SP Open, a WTA 250 tournament marking São Paulo’s return to the global women’s tennis circuit after 25 years, will feature four Brazilian players in the main draw from September 6 to 14 at Parque Villa-Lobos. Young prospects Victoria Barros and Nauhany Silva, both 15, received wildcards from the organizers, joining Beatriz Haddad Maia and Laura Pigossi, who qualified via rankings. Held on hard courts, the event is set to be a milestone for Brazilian tennis, showcasing the next generation of female players and drawing an estimated 30,000 spectators. The inclusion of Victoria and Naná, seen as future stars, underscores the tournament’s role in nurturing the sport in Brazil.
- Key Brazilian players at SP Open:
- Beatriz Haddad Maia, world No. 21 and top seed.
- Laura Pigossi, Olympic medalist and ranking qualifier.
- Victoria Barros, 15-year-old trained by Patrick Mouratoglou.
- Nauhany Silva, youngest WTA-ranked player, breaking records.
The tournament will also feature international stars like Filipina Alex Eala and Australian Ajla Tomljanovic, raising the competitive level. The event is expected to be a platform for Brazilian talent, particularly for the young players making their WTA 250 debut.
Victoria Barros: Brazil’s rising star from Natal
Victoria Barros, born in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, is one of Brazil’s brightest tennis prospects. At 15, she ranks among the top 25 in the ITF junior world rankings, known for her aggressive playing style. Her breakthrough came in 2023, winning four ITF titles, including a J100, at just 13. In 2024, she reached the semifinals of the W15 Monastir in Tunisia, earning her first WTA ranking points.
Training at Patrick Mouratoglou’s academy in France, former coach of Serena Williams, Victoria is preparing for a leap to the professional circuit. Her SP Open appearance will be her first in a WTA 250 event, offering a unique chance to play before Brazilian fans. “I’m thrilled to compete in my first WTA event in Brazil, with the crowd and people who support me. It’ll be an incredible experience,” she said in a promotional video.
- Victoria Barros’ career highlights:
- Debut in junior circuit at 13 in 2023.
- Won J300 title in Bamberg in 2025.
- Earned WTA ranking points at 14.
- Training with Patrick Mouratoglou since 2023.
Victoria also stood out internationally, reaching the quarterfinals of the ITF J300 in Medellín, competing against older players. Her steady progress positions her as a key hope for Brazilian women’s tennis.
Nauhany Silva: São Paulo’s record-breaking talent
Nauhany Silva, or Naná, is another name set to shine at the SP Open. Born in São Paulo, the 15-year-old made history in 2024 as the first player born in 2010 to enter the WTA rankings. Her consistency in the junior circuit is remarkable, with a title at the ITF J200 in Asunción, Paraguay, and a round of 16 finish at Wimbledon’s junior draw in 2025.
Known for her powerful serves and maturity on court, Naná won the J30 in Guatemala at 13, defeating opponents up to five years older. “Playing at home with my family and friends cheering is so special. Villa-Lobos is where I played as a kid,” she shared, emphasizing her emotional connection to the venue.
- Naná Silva’s notable achievements:
- First player born in 2010 in WTA rankings.
- Won ITF J200 in Asunción in 2024.
- Reached Wimbledon junior round of 16 in 2025.
- Current 39th in ITF junior world rankings.
Naná’s SP Open participation marks a pivotal step in her transition to the professional circuit, offering a chance to face top-tier opponents and gain valuable experience.
SP Open’s role in Brazilian tennis growth
The return of São Paulo to the WTA calendar after 25 years is a historic moment for Brazilian tennis. Held at Parque Villa-Lobos, the tournament features six courts, including a main arena for 2,500 spectators. The event includes fan zones, food courts, and interactive activities, designed to attract a diverse audience.
The inclusion of Victoria and Naná in the main draw highlights the SP Open’s commitment to promoting the future of women’s tennis in Brazil. Tournament director Luiz Carvalho emphasized its significance: “This is a unique opportunity for fans to see the future of women’s tennis and for players to gain experience at home.” Other Brazilians, like Luisa Stefani and Ingrid Martins, are expected to compete in doubles, further boosting national representation.
- SP Open infrastructure:
- Six courts, with a 2,500-seat main arena.
- Fan boulevard with food and interactive activations.
- Free entry for qualifying rounds on September 6-7.
- Expected attendance of 30,000 spectators.
The tournament will be broadcast live, allowing fans across Brazil to follow the action. Organizers hope the event will inspire new generations of players and boost tennis’s popularity in the country.
The rise of Brazil’s next tennis generation
The SP Open is not just a stage for established stars like Bia Haddad Maia but also a platform for emerging talents. Victoria Barros and Nauhany Silva represent the renewal of Brazilian tennis, bringing energy and potential to compete at the highest level. Both have shone in international junior tournaments, including Roland Garros and Wimbledon, signaling Brazil’s potential to reclaim a strong presence in global tennis.
Victoria’s aggressive style and Mouratoglou’s mentorship contrast with Naná’s powerful and consistent game, yet both share a promising trajectory. Their SP Open participation is a critical step toward professionalism, amplified by the home crowd’s support.
- Why Victoria and Naná are prospects to watch:
- Both 15 and already in WTA rankings.
- Titles in ITF and Grand Slam junior events.
- Distinctive playing styles with aggression and power.
- Backed by top coaches and elite academies.
The tournament also showcases Brazil’s tennis diversity, with players from regions like Rio Grande do Norte and São Paulo, reflecting the sport’s growing reach in the country.
What to expect from SP Open in São Paulo
The competition promises to be a landmark for Brazilian sports, blending international stars with local talent. Alongside Bia Haddad, the top seed, the SP Open will feature players like Hailey Baptiste from the U.S. and Alex Eala, a Rafael Nadal protégé. The mix of experience and youth creates a dynamic and engaging event for fans.
The qualifying rounds on September 6-7 offer free entry, with tickets reservable via the official website. The final main draw spots will include two more wildcards and four qualifiers, potentially featuring additional Brazilians. The event also honors Brazilian tennis history with the Top 100 Club, recognizing former players who ranked among the world’s best.
- Confirmed international players:
- Alex Eala, 2025 Miami Open semifinalist.
- Hailey Baptiste, tournament’s second seed.
- Ajla Tomljanovic, veteran Australian player.
The SP Open is more than a tournament—it’s a celebration of Brazilian tennis, spotlighting its bright future. Victoria Barros and Nauhany Silva’s main draw presence signals a promising era for women’s tennis in Brazil.
