Rwandan top seed Claude Ishimwe and No2 seed Étienne Niyigena and No3 David Manzi Rwamucyo have been awarded wild cards to participate at the 2025 Rwanda Open M25 scheduled in Kigali from October 6-19. Niyigena and Ishimwe haven’t missed the Kigali M25 since it was added to the ITF Men’s World Tennis Tour in 2023. In its third consecutive edition, Rwanda Open M25, will bring together male professional players from across the globe to compete for a total prize pool of $30,000 at the end of each of the next two weeks. The first week will kick off Monday, October 6 through Sunday, October 12 while the second week is scheduled for October 13–19. Ishimwe, Niyigena and Rwamucyo earned their spots by performing strongly in monthly national ranking championships organized by the Rwanda Tennis Federation (RTF). Other Rwandan players will have the opportunity to qualify through a preliminary round on Sunday, October 5. RTF President Karenzi Théoneste expressed confidence in the preparations, saying: “We have no concerns; everything is going smoothly. Each year, the tournament grows stronger as highly skilled players continue to participate.” The tournament will feature 32 players, including 10 ranked among the top 1,000 globally, all of whom will enter the main draw. Prize Money increased by 20% compared to $25,000 previously put on table in ITF World Tennis Tour events. This year, the Rwanda Open M25 prize pool has been increased to $30,000. The winner of a week-long tournament will now receive $4,612 and 25 ranking points, while players eliminated in the Round of 16 will earn $319. The doubles champions will share $1,872, and those exiting in the Round of 16 earning $194.
