U.S relations set to be dealt backhand

International relations between Australia and America will be put to the sword when promising tennis juniors square off at The University of Queensland from Friday.

A group of touring American students will look to claim bragging rights over their Australian counterparts in the inaugural Australia Cup Challenge.

The two-day tournament will pit more than 70 young tennis hopefuls from both countries against each other in a round robin format at the UQ Tennis Centre.

Tournament director Ross Orford said the Australia Cup would provide developing players aged 11-18 with valuable experience.

"It's a unique opportunity for these young athletes to improve their tennis skills and come up against players from another country in a competitive arena," Mr Orford said.

The American athletes will have their sole competition of a two-week tour in Brisbane and will look to use the tournament to help take their players to the next level.

Mr Orford said the Australia Cup tournament would not be focused solely on competition.

"While the tennis will be competitive, it's important the players find the tournament a worthwhile experience both on and off the court," Mr Orford said.

"There is a great social program planned for the athletes outside competition and hopefully they will be able to strike up a few new friendships."

The Americans will arrive in Brisbane fresh from a training camp in Fiji and will combine their Brisbane competition with a tour of major South East Queensland attractions.

The Australia Cup Challenge will commence with an opening ceremony at the UQ Tennis Centre on Thursday 26 June from 5pm followed by competition on Friday (1pm - 7pm) and Saturday (8am - 4pm).

Media: For further information contact Rowan Foster on 3365 6041 or 0421 976 972