top tennis from the world’s best
August 2026 saw many of the world’s best blind and visually impaired tennis players battle it out at one of Europe’s most impressive indoor tennis venues (SEB Arena) in the Lithuanian Open Championships. The tournament produced a series of standout performances across the different visual classifications, with champions from Finland, Luxembourg, Italy and Great Britain among those celebrating success in Vilnius.
Finland's Jani Kallunki claimed victory after defeating Great Britain's Naqi Rizvi 4–1, 5–3 in the B1 men’s final. Kallunki delivered an impressive performance in front of a packed stadium against one of the leading players in the classification to secure the championship.
In the women's B2 category, Liz Conzemius of Luxembourg emerged victorious after a closely contested final. She defeated her opponent 5–4 (7–5), 4–2, demonstrating composure in the crucial moments to take the title. Meanwhile, in the B2 men’s category, Italy’s Davide Viglianti claimed silver.
Great Britain's Ivan Rodríguez Deb topped the men's B4 standings without dropping a set to secure his title, while fellow Brit Lucas McClay earned bronze in the men's B3 competition following a tight 5–3, 5–3 victory in the third-place match against Spain’s Alvaro Azofra de Rivas.
These performances reflected the international strength of the field, with players from multiple nations making their mark throughout the week.
A Showcase of International Talent
Beyond the champions, the tournament provided a valuable platform for players to test themselves against unfamiliar opposition, develop their competitive experience and represent their countries on an international stage.
The competition featured a variety of playing styles and tactical approaches, demonstrating the technical ability, concentration and adaptability that visually impaired tennis demands. From closely fought finals to decisive performances in the medal matches, the standard of play made for an engaging week of competition.
For newer players, the event also offered an opportunity to gain experience against established international competitors and build momentum for future tournaments.
Building the Future of Visually Impaired Tennis
The Lithuanian Open represented an important milestone in the TWT's 2026 calendar, reinforcing the Tour's ambition to create a more connected international circuit for visually impaired tennis.
Through its tiered tournament structure, the TWT aims to provide meaningful competitive opportunities, support player development and raise the profile of the sport worldwide. Tier 500 events are a key part of this vision, bringing together strong international fields and giving players opportunities to progress through the rankings. Over €15,000 worth of prize was distributed to players who reached the podium, demonstrating the commitment of the tournament organisers to recognising the players’ achievements. This marks an important step as blind and low-vision tennis transitions to a professional sport.
Looking Ahead
The TWT congratulates all the champions, medallists and participants who competed in Vilnius, as well as the organisers, officials and volunteers who helped make the tournament possible.
The Lithuanian Open 2026 demonstrated the strength and diversity of international blind and visually impaired tennis. With athletes continuing to push competitive standards and represent their countries with distinction, the future of the sport remains full of promise.
Stay tuned for the release of the 2027 tournament calendar!
