Overview
- At an ITF W35 event in Nairobi, Hajar Abdelkader lost to Germany’s Lorena Schädel 6-0, 6-0 in 37 minutes in a first‑round match.
- Match data and widely shared clips show Abdelkader committed 20 double faults and won only three points, prompting questions about her playing level.
- Tennis Kenya said the wildcard should not have been issued and pledged to prevent a repeat after reviewing how the slot was filled.
- Organisers said Abdelkader stated she had sufficient competitive experience, was the only applicant once a Kenyan player withdrew, and was selected to support regional development goals.
- The Egyptian Tennis Federation told the BBC Abdelkader was never registered with it and had no nomination from Egypt, as Tennis Kenya added it had contacted both players to offer support.