28 February 2026
First Step from TTF for JTI Accreditation
The Türkiye Tennis Federation (TTF) took an important step in line with international tennis development standards and initiated the Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI) activation process in cooperation with the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
Facility Inspection and Strategic Evaluation
With the participation of ITF Development Officer for Europe Olha Lazarchuk; within the scope of the meeting attended by TTF President Ms. Şafak Müderrisgil, TTF Education Board Member Nezih Orhon, TTF Projects Officer Esra Kılıç, TTF Financial Affairs Officer Engin Gençbaş, and TTF Istanbul Tennis Center Officer Erhan Şahin, the TTF Istanbul Tennis Center was inspected on-site, and the infrastructure, education, and performance processes were evaluated in detail.
The Role of JTI in the National Development Model
At the meeting, comprehensive information was provided about the system infrastructure to be used to activate the JTI program in our country and the data sets requested by the ITF.
The Junior Tennis Initiative is a national tennis development program supported by the ITF and covers athletes aged 14 and under. Forming the basis of the player development roadmap of national federations, this program aims for children to be introduced to tennis for the first time and to access regular play and competition environments through schools, clubs, and local organizations.
The JTI aims to create a sustainable tennis ecosystem by involving not only athletes but also coaches, physical education teachers, and organization managers in the process. The program serves as a starting point that prepares talented athletes for the international arena by ensuring their integration into the national development system.
International Integration and Performance Steps
The JTI supports the integration of athletes into the ITF's international tournament structure in the ensuing process. Athletes raised from the program gain international experience through the ITF World Tennis Tour Juniors and can subsequently advance to the performance steps extending to the ITF World Tennis Tour and the elite level.
NTC and RCEdS Recognition Processes
During the meeting, the National Training Centre (NTC) and Recognition of Coach Education Systems (RCEdS) processes were also discussed in detail. Within the framework of the ITF's four-tier rating system (White, Bronze, Silver, Gold), it was evaluated that the "Bronze" level is suitable for the Federation for both recognition processes at the initial stage.
It was stated that it is possible to upgrade these levels in the future with the development of the relevant criteria and the increase of corporate capacity.
Certification Process
Technical briefing was provided regarding the application documents, forms, and evaluation steps requested by the ITF in order to officially initiate the NTC and RCEdS recognition processes. Upon the completion of the process, it is aimed that the TTF's education and performance infrastructure will be officially recognized at international standards.
Global Impact and Strategic Vision
According to ITF data, more than 213 thousand children were introduced to tennis within the scope of the JTI program, which was actively implemented in 142 countries as of 2021. The program both increases participation and expands the talent pool through schools, clubs, and performance centers.
The initiation of the JTI activation process by the TTF constitutes a strategic step in terms of strengthening the 14 & under tennis development model in Türkiye, introducing more children to tennis, and increasing international competitiveness.
28 February 2026
