As a proud representative of The Queen’s Gurkha Engineers (QGE), I – Staff Sergeant Kumar Pun – had the privilege of joining the Army Master Tennis Team on its 2026 Overseas Tour. The tour has undoubtedly been one of the most significant highlights for our unit and my career. Earning a place in the Army Tennis Team requires immense dedication, countless hours on the court, and unwavering commitment to the sport.
The tour itself was an opportunity to foster collaboration and cohesion with teams across the UK Armed Forces, as we came together to represent British Army Tennis in Singapore and Australia. It was a chance to showcase our skills, build camaraderie, and strengthen the bonds within the Army tennis community.
One of the standout moments of the tour was participating in an international tennis tournament in Australia. Competing on such a prestigious stage was an incredible experience, and I am proud to share that we secured an individual first-place position in one of the group stage competitions. In the doubles tournament, we reached the semi-finals, a significant achievement that brought immense pride to the British Army Tennis Organisation. These accomplishments not only highlighted our hard work and dedication but also demonstrated the strength and potential of Army tennis on an international level.
Playing against the Australian Defence Forces and various local clubs during the tour was an enriching experience. It allowed us to test our skills against strong opponents, which undoubtedly improved our team cohesion and elevated Army Tennis to new heights. The tour also provided us with the unique opportunity to attend the Australian Open, one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world. Witnessing professional players from across the globe compete at the highest level was truly inspiring. Their physical and mental resilience on the court was awe-inspiring and served as a powerful reminder of the dedication required to excel in this sport.
The two-week tour boosted our team’s morale, strengthened our resolve to become better players, and helped us grow as individuals. The experience reinforced the importance of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, values that are at the core of both tennis and military life.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent QGE and the British Army Tennis Team on this unforgettable tour. It has been a defining moment in my career, and I hope it serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting sports within the military.
