Former Number 1 will award the Transylvania Open 2026 trophy to the champion
Simona Halep, the most accomplished player in the history of Romanian tennis, returns to Cluj as the Honorary Ambassador of the Transylvania Open WTA 250. A former world No. 1 and one of the most outstanding athletes in the sport’s history, Simona continues to inspire the next generation, even from beyond the court.
Credit foto: treizecizero.ro
Simona will be present throughout the tournament and will take part in a series of activities, including meetings with players competing in this year’s edition, as well as dedicated sessions for ball kids and volunteers. She will also attend the official closing ceremony and will present the Transylvania Open 2026 trophy to the champion.
Over the course of her career, Simona Halep won 24 WTA titles, including two Grand Slam trophies – Roland Garros (2018) and Wimbledon (2019) – and spent 64 weeks as world No. 1, becoming the first Romanian player to reach the top of the WTA rankings. Her achievements, competitive spirit, and immense popularity have made her a true symbol of Romanian sport.
Her presence at the Transylvania Open also carries a special emotional significance: Simona played in the final of the tournament’s first edition in 2021, and in 2025 she chose to officially announce her retirement from professional tennis on Centre Court in Cluj-Napoca, in front of her fans, following an emotional first-round match.
Simona Halep, Honorary Ambassador of the Transylvania Open WTA 250:
“Transylvania Open is, for me, more than a tournament. It is the place where I felt the support of Romanian fans at the highest level and where I experienced moments that will always remain close to my heart. I’m happy to return and contribute with a different kind of energy – the one that supports and encourages future generations.”
Simona Halep’s presence at this year’s edition is a natural continuation of the deep bond she shares with the Romanian public and with the city of Cluj-Napoca. Through this partnership, the organizers of the Transylvania Open WTA 250 aim to celebrate the career of a great champion while also creating the perfect context for dialogue, inspiration, and genuine emotion around tennis.
Patrick Ciorcilă, Tournament Director of the Transylvania Open WTA 250:
“It is a privilege that Simona Halep accepted our invitation to become the Honorary Ambassador of the Transylvania Open. She represents excellence in sport, total dedication, and authentic performance. The fact that she is returning to Cluj in a new role, but with the same energy, means a great deal to us. It is a gesture that shows just how important the community built around this tournament is – for the players and for the fans as well.”
