ITF signs MOU with International Committee of Sports for the Deaf

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen collaboration and support the global development of tennis for deaf athletes.

The agreement reflects both organisations shared ambition to make tennis more inclusive and create meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy and excel in the sport. It also demonstrates a joint commitment to expanding participation and building a sustainable future for Deaf Tennis worldwide.

Through the MOU, the ITF will explore the organisation and operation of Deaf Tennis, from governance and regulations to participation pathways, to gain a deeper understanding of the sports structure. The collaboration will also support the ICSD’s ongoing work in developing major events, including the Summer Deaflympics, the World Deaf Tennis Championships, and Deaf Tennis Open tournaments.

The ITF will also gather insights on participation, development, and coaching to inform growth strategies, and better understand the practical and competitive requirements of Deaf Tennis. In turn, the ICSD will benefit from the ITF’s experience in governance, classification, and the development of other disability tennis disciplines, such as wheelchair tennis.

Aligned with the ITF’s 2024+4 ‘Opportunity’ pillar, which aims to make tennis a sport open to everyone, the agreement reinforces the ITF’s constitutional purpose to encourage universal participation and prevent discrimination in all its forms. The MOU also supports ICSD’s broader initiatives to promote education, research, and cultural development in Deaf Tennis.

By sharing knowledge, expertise and resources, both organisations aim to strengthen the Deaf Tennis ecosystem – from grassroots participation to elite competition – and ensure tennis remains a truly global and accessible sport for all.

For more information, visit: https://www.ciss.org/