Daily Mail Sport understands that Abdelkader was given a wildcard to the W35 event in Nairobi after first being refused one. Adding to the mystery of Abdelkader's background, Tennis Kenya when contacted for comment claimed that she had flown into Nairobi to compete in the tournament, appearing to contradict the Egyptian statement. 'In hindsight, Tennis Kenya acknowledges that this wildcard should not have been granted. 'Tennis Kenya remains committed to fairness, transparency and the integrity of competition, as well as to the continued development of tennis in Kenya, East Africa, and across Africa.' Tennis Kenya added that Abdelkader had 'indicated that she had an appropriate level of competitive playing experience' with the wildcard issued 'based on the information provided'.

Source: Daily Mail January 09, 2026 09:24 UTC