For the first time in Bhutan’s sporting history, the country has a presence on the global tennis stage. Pema Norbu, a Bhutanese player, has broken new ground by securing a world ranking from the International Tennis Federation (ITF) after strong performances in recent international tournaments.
Norbu is currently ranked 662 in the ITF Masters 30-plus category and 1210 in the 35-plus category, achievements that have placed Bhutan on the international tennis map.
A Historic Debut
Pema’s journey began in August this year when he made his international debut at the ITF World Tennis Masters Tour MT100 tournament in Assam, India. Competing in both singles and doubles in the 35-plus division, he advanced to the singles final and reached the semifinals in doubles. Those results earned him Bhutan’s first-ever ITF ranking—1208 in the 35-plus category.
He built on that momentum earlier this month at the MT200 tournament in Jharkhand, India. Playing in the 30-plus division, he once again reached the singles final and, partnering with an Indian teammate, finished runner-up in doubles. That success boosted him to his current standing of 662.
Path to the Top
The ITF Masters Tour is structured into tiers ranging from MT50 to MT1000, with the number indicating ranking points for winners. Higher-tier events attract stronger competition and greater rewards.
Speaking about his rise, Pema said:
“The ITF ranking comes from competing in international tournaments and earning points based on performance. Since August, I have played in MT100 and MT200, where I reached finals in both tournaments. Those results gave me my ranking points and placed Bhutan on the ITF list for the first time.”
Looking ahead, Pema has set his sights on breaking into the ITF Top 100 by next year. To do so, he plans to compete in higher-level tournaments, including the MT400 in Thailand later this month and the MT700 in Japan next month.
“My preparation focuses on improving both fitness and match experience. Competing abroad also teaches me to adapt to different conditions and opponents, which is crucial at this level,” he added.
Inspiring a Generation
The Bhutan Tennis Federation hailed Pema’s breakthrough as a milestone that could spark greater interest in the sport among Bhutanese youth. The federation emphasized that his achievement underscores the need for better facilities, coaching, and sponsorship within the country.
Ravi Sankar Singh, Pema’s coach, expressed optimism:
“This is a beginning for our tennis. Bhutanese tennis has been struggling for a long time, but what Pema did will inspire all the players. Our children are already very much interested in tennis, and this will encourage them further.”
A New Chapter for Bhutanese Tennis
As Pema Norbu continues his climb on the world stage, his journey marks more than just personal success. It symbolizes a new chapter for Bhutanese tennis—one where global recognition is no longer a distant dream but a growing reality.
