Simona Halep and Juan Martín del Potro headline historic Moldova tennis exhibition in Chișinău

imona Halep was the protagonist of a special exhibition event in Chișinău, Moldova, where she took part in the inauguration of the National Tennis Center in Chișinău together with former US Open champion Juan Martín del Potro. The two-time Grand Slam champion was the main star of the tennis duel played in the small country of Moldova—one with strong ties to Romania.

There, in Moldova, Halep felt practically like a local, being given a standing ovation upon her entrance onto the court, where she played a mixed doubles match partnering with Radu Albot, Moldovan tennis player, former top-40 and currently world No. 492.

On the other side, there was an honorary guest in former US Open champion Juan Martín del Potro—retired for several years—who partnered with Lia Beliibova, a 17-year-old local junior player, one of the biggest prospects in Moldovan tennis.

The Halep–Albot duo defeated Del Potro–Beliibova in a three-set match held as part of the venue inauguration by 6-4, 2-6, 10-7. “It is an honour and a joy to be here at this wonderful center. It is an impressive project. What can I say? I’m happy for these children who are starting tennis today,” Simona Halep said.

During the inauguration of the new sports complex, Moldova’s Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu—who had earlier cut the ribbon—was briefly invited onto court when Juan Martín del Potro complained of fatigue and ceded his place for a game.

Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu highlighted the broader impact of the facility, saying: “I am glad our young people will have access to sports activities. For me, tennis brings great joy. My whole family plays, and we are very happy when we meet our children to play together. I encourage all of you, whatever sport you choose, to stay active.”

Radu Albot also praised the project and the conditions, noting: “Of course I never imagined this. It is something extraordinary for tennis in our country. It is incredible to have such infrastructure. Look at these courts, this atmosphere.”

Juan Martín del Potro, reflecting on the initiative and its significance for young players, said: “It is amazing for the kids. More and more will come to play. Not many countries have such good conditions. I wish them success and I am honoured to be here.”

After the exhibition match—which also inaugurated what will be the Moldova Challenger 100 event this week—Halep shared several photos of the exhibition on social media and thanked the organizers for the invitation to the event.

“I am happy to be part of the inauguration of the National Tennis Center in Chișinău and to see so much passion for tennis in the Republic of Moldova. Thank you @fntm.md and Mr. President @ceslavciuhrii for the invitation, and to the audience for the warm welcome. ❤️❤️

It is wonderful to see that investment is being made in tennis and in the future of this sport. Congratulations to everyone involved in this project and much success in the future!”

Halep, meanwhile, had a good approach to her farewell match, which she will play in a few weeks in Cluj-Napoca, when she faces her former rival Elina Svitolina—who will accompany her in a farewell event scheduled for June 13—amid the grass swing and Romania’s preparations to compete at Wimbledon.