MILAN/STARNBERG, June 26, 2026
Twenty years ago, Rafael Nadal had just won his second Roland Garros title, Roger Federer was on the verge of claiming a fourth Wimbledon crown, and Novak Djokovic was still waiting for his first ATP Tour trophy. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz had not yet picked up a tennis racket.
Much has changed in the world of tennis since 2006, but one constant remains: the Aspria Tennis Cup – Trofeo BCS. This summer, the ATP Challenger event celebrates its 20th edition, a significant milestone that further cements its status as one of Italy’s most established tournaments and a key stop on the summer Challenger calendar.
The tournament will take place from 28 June to 5 July on the clay courts of the Aspria Harbour Club in Milan. Over the past two decades, it has successfully combined tradition with innovation, evolving alongside the sport while maintaining its reputation as a showcase for future stars. Among the notable names to have competed in Milan are Jannik Sinner, Flavio Cobolli, Felix Auger-Aliassime, Rafael Jodar and Dino Prizmic, all of whom have used the event as a stepping stone in their careers.
A Favourable Calendar Position
This year’s edition benefits from a particularly advantageous position in the calendar, coinciding with the opening week of Wimbledon. As a result, many players ranked between No. 100 and No. 200 in the world—who would normally be competing in qualifying at the All England Club—are available to play in Milan, strengthening the overall field.
Fans will also be able to follow the action extensively, with the final broadcast live on SuperTennis and the entire tournament streamed on Challenger TV.
Tournament Presented in Milan
The 2026 edition was officially launched at the Aspria Harbour Club, with representatives from sport, politics and business gathering to celebrate the tournament’s anniversary.
Roberta Minardi, General Manager of the Aspria Harbour Club, highlighted the significance of the milestone.
“This is our twentieth edition and a special celebration for everyone involved. The tournament has always been a source of inspiration, especially for young players who have the opportunity to watch future champions up close.”
The event once again enjoys the support of the Lombardy regional government. Federica Picchi, Undersecretary for Sport and Youth, praised the tournament’s role in developing young talent and enhancing the region’s sporting profile.
CONI Lombardia President Marco Riva and FITP Lombardia representative Roberto Recalcati also underlined the importance of Challenger tournaments in providing Italian players with valuable opportunities to compete at home.
BCS President Giuseppe Fumagalli, whose company remains title sponsor of the event, drew parallels between the tournament’s longevity and the values of innovation that have characterised both the company and the event throughout the years.
Tournament organiser Carlo Alagna reflected on the journey since the inaugural edition.
“When we started twenty years ago, tennis was not nearly as popular as it is today. There were difficult years, but the sport has grown enormously. For this anniversary edition we have introduced a new logo, a packed programme of cultural and wellness events, and an enhanced hospitality experience.”
Social Initiatives and Community Engagement
Beyond the tennis, organisers have placed a strong emphasis on social initiatives. On semi-final day, spectators will be able to enjoy wheelchair tennis and blind tennis exhibitions, highlighting the tournament’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
The traditional olive tree planting ceremony was also held following the presentation. This year’s ceremony carried particular significance, with the olive tree serving as a symbol of longevity and growth to mark the tournament’s twentieth anniversary.
Strong Player Field Headlined by Comesana
Leading the entry list is Argentina’s Francisco Comesana, currently ranked world No. 89. He is joined by several former Top 100 players, including Dusan Lajovic, the 2019 Monte Carlo finalist, former world No. 16 Nikoloz Basilashvili and Bolivia’s Hugo Dellien.
Dellien is also one of four former Milan champions returning to compete this year. The group is completed by Federico Gomez, Facundo Diaz Acosta and defending champion Marco Cecchinato.
Italian fans will have plenty of home favourites to support. Alongside Cecchinato, the field includes Luca Nardi, Francesco Passaro, Stefano Travaglia and highly regarded youngster Jacopo Vasamì, who reached the semi-finals in Milan last year and remains one of the country’s most exciting prospects.
The first wild cards have already been awarded to Pierluigi Basile and Filippo Romano, while a third invitation will be announced by organisers in the coming days.
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Tickets Now Available
With one of the strongest fields in recent years and a rich programme of events planned both on and off the court, anticipation for the 2026 Aspria Tennis Cup is high.
Tickets, including access to the newly introduced Hospitality Area, are already on sale through TicketOne. Fans can also purchase tickets directly at the venue from 1 July onwards. Admission will be free during the opening days of the tournament, from 28 to 30 June, offering spectators an excellent opportunity to experience high-level professional tennis in Milan.
