The 2026 Palm Coast Open wrapped up at the Southern Recreation Center with champions crowned from Italy, Great Britain, Argentina, and Brazil, while hometown players earned moments in the spotlight alongside rising international talent.
The tournament, sanctioned by the USTA Pro Circuit and ITF World Tennis Tour, featured both a Men’s M15 and Women’s W15 draw. Players from across the United States and around the world competed for ranking points, prize money, and career momentum over nearly a month of competition.
The men’s side kicked off with the Wild Card Tournament from January 30 through February 1, followed by the M15 Main Draw from February 2 through February 8. Italy’s Tommaso Compagnucci emerged as the Men’s Singles Champion after what organizers described as a composed and commanding run through the draw. Argentina’s Ignacio Monzon and Fermin Tenti captured the Men’s Doubles title with consistent, high-level play.
A standout moment came during the Men’s Wild Card Tournament when Palm Coast resident and Southern Recreation Center tennis instructor Oleksandr Bielinskyi battled his way to win the wild card, earning a spot in the main draw and competing on his home courts in front of the local community.
The women’s competition followed with the Wild Card Tournament from February 13 through February 15 and the W15 Main Draw from February 16 through February 22. Great Britain’s Sofia Johnson delivered a dominant performance to claim her first professional singles title. Top seed Thaisa Grana Pedretti of Brazil reached the singles final and captured the doubles championship alongside fellow Brazilian Carolina Bohrer Martins, for whom the victory marked her first professional title.
The women’s event also featured notable local and young talent. Fifteen-year-old Bunnell native Clarice Ouvarova competed in the W15 Main Qualifying draw, and 17-year-old American wildcard Carlota Moreno reached the semifinals in her professional debut.
“This event continues to grow in stature each year,” said James Hirst, Director of Parks and Recreation. “From international champions to local players earning their opportunity to compete at this level, the Palm Coast Open represents the very best of what sports can bring to our community.”
Vice Mayor Theresa Carli Pontieri, who presented the W15 Singles championship trophy, added, “It was an honor to recognize such exceptional athletes competing here in Palm Coast. This tournament not only elevates our city on a global stage but also inspires the next generation of local players.”
The tournament was supported by a number of community partners. AdventHealth provided medical support to ensure player health and safety. Best Western Palm Coast offered accommodations for players and visitors. The event was supported in part by a grant from the Flagler County Tourist Development Council, whose investment in sports tourism helps bring premier events and economic impact to the region. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office also provided its Citizen Observer Patrol to help monitor traffic and parking and ensure a safe experience for attendees.
With the 2026 edition in the books, the city said it looks forward to welcoming the world back to its courts for the 2027 Palm Coast Open.
