"We are not at the stage just yet of having some local players who are good enough to qualify for the event. But we will start from here to invest more in youth training and tennis exchange programs with the mainland to eventually cultivate good enough talents from Macao to join the party in the long run."

A series of youth promotional events, such as a junior clinic overseen by tennis legend Li Na, were staged on the sidelines of the tournament, drawing increasing interest from the Macao public.

Coorganized by the finals' title sponsor SJM, the training camp, which was also part of a Special Olympics promotional event, invited two-time Grand Slam winner Li to warm up with youngsters and share her experiences as a pro with participants from the Special Olympics community in Macao on a pleasant morning on Dec 8.

"We are honored to welcome Li Na and the Special Olympics athletes to this series of fun-filled tennis activities. The series is testament to our efforts in supporting the government's 'Sports for All — Let's Exercise for Better Health' initiative, through which we hope to showcase the tenacious spirit of athletes, and promote the joy of the sport," said Daisy Ho, managing director of SJM Resorts, a major resort operator.

sunxiaochen@chinadaily.com.cn