Barbados Road Tennis Open 2025: Shakeem Nurse Crowned Champion, Walrond’s Redemption, and a Historic Night
The Barbados Road Tennis Open 2025 (BRTO) wrapped up with fireworks at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium, delivering unforgettable finals that may have changed the course of Barbados’ national sport forever. With over 100 athletes competing across multiple divisions and BBD $170,000 in prize money at stake, this year’s Open proved once again why it is the crown jewel of road tennis.
In one of the biggest shocks in recent road tennis history, Shakeem Nurse defeated reigning champion Mark “Venom” Griffith in straight sets: 22–20, 21–15, 21–15.
Griffith, who entered the finals chasing his fourth consecutive BRTO title, had been nearly untouchable in recent years. But Nurse’s commanding performance ended his streak, secured the BBD $20,000 first prize, and signaled the dawn of a new era in road tennis. Griffith, as runner-up, took home BBD $15,000. This victory is not just about a title — it’s about proving that new talent can rise to challenge Barbados’ most dominant champion, creating fresh storylines and greater excitement for the sport.
The women’s final was equally dramatic. Sheldene Walrond battled back after losing the first set to defeat Rachel Smith14–21, 21–13, 21–13, reclaiming the BRTO women’s crown. Walrond, who had fallen short in last year’s finals, celebrated sweet redemption as she secure BBD $20,000 in prize money. Smith, the runner-up, earned BBD $10,000. Her victory underscored her resilience and determination to stay at the top of women’s road tennis in Barbados.
The 2025 BRTO wasn’t only about the senior stars. With over 100 registered competitors across divisions, young players stepped up and delivered performances that captured the crowd’s imagination. This year’s event emphasized the continued growth of road tennis in Barbados, particularly among youth athletes, who see the sport as both a competitive outlet and a cultural legacy to carry forward.
With nearly BBD $170,000 distributed in prize money across men’s, women’s, and youth divisions, the BRTO 2025 showed how professional and rewarding road tennis has become. The financial support ensures that athletes can continue to train, compete, and elevate their performances on and off the court.
