#Japan #Tokyo #Japan Tennis #RAFA NADAL ACADEMY #JTRF Program

New Opportunities for Young Tennis Talents

The Japan Private Trust Foundation, located in Minato City, Tokyo, is expanding its initiatives to support young talents in the Japanese tennis scene. Starting May 29, 2026, the foundation will begin recruiting participants for the second round of its short-term study abroad program, part of the Japan Tennis Rising Fund (JTRF).

Achievements of First Round Participants

In 2025, four junior players aged 12 to 16 were selected to participate in the inaugural short-term program at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Spain. These players have achieved remarkable results in key domestic and international tournaments:

• - Ryoma Otori made history by becoming the first Japanese male player to win the Les Petits As U14 singles title, a prestigious global competition, in January 2026. He was honored with the JOC Sports Award for Newcomer of the Year in 2025.
• - Ayaka Iwasa claimed the championship in the U14 girls’ singles at the Junior Orange Bowl, one of the most renowned junior tournaments, held in December 2025.

Overview of the Second Round Program

Purpose and Support

The short-term study abroad program aims to help junior players transition from Japan to Europe despite geographical challenges. It provides financial assistance for travel and living expenses to nurture the next generation of players capable of winning Grand Slam titles. This year, the program will adopt approximately four to five participants, with final selections expected by the end of September 2026. They will then spend one week at the Rafa Nadal Academy in November 2026.

Application Details

• - Application Period: May 29, 2026 - July 31, 2026
• - Number of Participants: Approximately 4-5
• - Selection Announcement: End of September 2026 (tentative)
• - Study Abroad Period: November 2026 (tentative; 1 week)
• - Location: Rafa Nadal Academy, Spain

Eligibility Criteria

Participants must be Japanese nationals aged between 11 and under 16 years, aiming to become world-class tennis players. Eligible candidates include:
1. Players who have reached the top eight in the singles divisions of major national youth championships.
2. Those registered in tennis academies or schools within Japan.
3. Players who have already competed in international events.

Application Method

Interested candidates should verify the details on the official website and apply through the designated application page: JTRF Program Application

New Mid-Term Study Abroad Program

This year, the JTRF is also introducing a new mid-term study abroad program to provide a long-term support system for selected participants transitioning from the short-term program.

Structure of the Program

• - Short-term (1 week) → Selection → Mid-term (10 weeks)

- The mid-term program is exclusively for those chosen from the short-term program, hence no open recruitment will take place.

Mid-Term Program Details

• - Target Group: U14 to U16 players.
• - Duration: Ten weeks of training and stay at the Rafa Nadal Academy.
• - Support Provided: Funding for accommodation, round-trip airfare (two round trips), and a support fee of 3 million yen.

About Japan Tennis Rising Fund

The mission of the JTRF is to discover and nurture young talent within the tennis community, promoting a society where young people can challenge themselves without financial constraints. This program aims to create a sustainable cycle of growth, ensuring that the future of tennis in Japan is bright.

For more information about JTRF and to apply, please visit Japan Tennis Rising Fund Website.

About Japan Private Trust Foundation

The Japan Private Trust Foundation aims to bridge the gap between wealth and need, aiming for sustainable contributions through philanthropic activities. Established in 2024, it focuses on grant-making that is aligned with donors’ values and goals. For more details, visit Private Trust Foundation Website.