Former landfill in Diyala converted into province's largest tennis center

BAQUBA, Iraq — A former landfill near the Heciye River in Baquba, the capital of Diyala province east of Baghdad, has been converted into a multi-purpose sports facility that now serves as Diyala's largest specialized tennis center, hosting dozens of players of all ages. The center operates tiered training programs for children, youths and adults, with sessions beginning at age 4. Diyala Tennis Federation head Majid Khalil said the center was established about a decade ago through individual efforts, with several courts brought into operation over time. He noted that tennis has a history in the city dating back to the 1950s, when European companies were active in Baquba during the construction of an iron bridge in the area. Players trained at the facility have represented Diyala at Arab, Asian and international tournaments, according to Khalil, who cited athletes including Nur Majid and Neba Abbas. Player Sara Nawwar, who has trained for nine years and works out four days a week, said she placed fourth nationally at a tournament in Erbil. Fellow player Mohammed Tariq said he joined the center seven years ago and has finished near the top of competitions held in Baghdad and other cities.