The 2026 edition of this epic end-of-season tournament will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most demanding, competitive and enjoyable tournaments held at the club in recent years.
Twenty-eight competitors took part over three days of competition during one of the most significant heatwaves experienced in decades. With temperatures soaring outside and conditions inside the court resembling a greenhouse, every player faced a unique challenge. The heat affected not only the competitors but also the behaviour of the ball itself, making concentration, adaptability and endurance essential qualities throughout the weekend.
From the opening group matches through to the final, the standard of sportsmanship was exemplary. Every competitor embraced the spirit of the handicap format, competing fiercely while maintaining the highest standards of respect, fairness and camaraderie. While the players who progressed through the groups and into the knockout stages deserve recognition for their achievements, the success of the tournament belonged to every participant who contributed to such an outstanding atmosphere.
The support from members and guests at the club was equally impressive. The terrace remained full throughout the weekend, with members, families, partners, wives, girlfriends and children all gathering to support the competitors. The atmosphere created by the spectators was exceptional and reflected the passion that exists within the club. Despite the extreme temperatures, the mood remained positive, friendly and enthusiastic from the first match to the last.
As the tournament moved into the quarter-final stage, the level of competition rose yet again. Several matches were decided by the narrowest of margins. Hart Cordell produced one of the performances of the weekend, edging through a thrilling quarter-final 6/5 to secure his place in the semi-finals. Another closely fought encounter saw Fabian Vitoy involved in a match that could easily have gone either way, illustrating just how competitive the knockout stages had become.
In the semi-finals, Hart Cordell found himself facing Jeremy Kreitz. By that stage of the competition Jeremy had already played a remarkable number of matches in the oppressive heat and appeared at times to be balancing between excellent form and complete exhaustion. Nevertheless, he found the energy and determination required to reach the final, demonstrating tremendous resilience and competitive spirit.
The other semi-final featured Philippe-Antoine Travis Jr. against Hubert de Missiessy. Although the scoreline finished 6/2, it hardly reflected the quality of the contest. Hubert produced some outstanding tennis and repeatedly tested Philippe with the very best shots he could produce. Philippe responded with a level of maturity and composure well beyond his years, absorbing the pressure and producing some exceptional play to earn his place in the final.
The final brought together Jeremy Kreitz and Philippe-Antoine Travis Jr. Under the handicap system, Philippe was required to overcome a twenty-point disadvantage, meaning that many games effectively began close to 30-all. It was an exceptionally difficult challenge, particularly against a player of Jeremy’s experience and quality. Yet Philippe handled the situation superbly. Remaining calm under pressure, selecting his shots wisely and competing with remarkable maturity, he produced a performance worthy of a champion.
At the conclusion of three demanding days, there could be only one winner. Congratulations go to Philippe-Antoine Travis Jr., who fully deserved his victory and the title of Handicap des Membres Champion 2026.
Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of the entire tournament was what it revealed about the future of the game. Two of the standout performers of the weekend were only 13 and 14 years of age. One reached the semi-finals, while the other went on to win the tournament outright. Their performances demonstrated not only extraordinary talent but also composure, sportsmanship and maturity beyond their years. If this tournament is any indication, the future of Jeu de Paume is incredibly bright.
From my perspective as the club professional, tournament organiser and marker throughout the weekend, perhaps the most rewarding aspect was not simply seeing who won or lost, but seeing the progress that every competitor has made throughout the year.
Every player who entered this year’s Handicap des Membres has invested countless hours in lessons, practice sessions, court bookings and friendly matches. They have worked hard to improve their games, developed new skills, built confidence on court and, perhaps most importantly, built friendships through their shared passion for Jeu de Paume.
The tournament provided a wonderful opportunity for all of that effort to come together in a competitive environment. Having had the privilege of marking every match and witnessing every point, I can honestly say that the overall standard of play was exceptional. The quality of shot-making, tactical awareness, determination and sportsmanship displayed throughout the weekend was a credit to every competitor involved.
While there can only be one champion, every player should leave this tournament proud of their contribution. The spirit in which the event was played, the commitment shown by all participants and the continued improvement across the membership are tremendously encouraging for the future of the game and for the future of our club.
Finally, I would like to thank all of the competitors, spectators, families and supporters who helped make this year’s Handicap des Membres such a success. More than the result itself, the tournament showcased everything that makes our club special: competitive spirit, friendship, respect, participation and a shared love of the game.
It was a pleasure to organise and mark, and I look forward to seeing what next year’s tournament will bring.
