Tennis stars on a special assignment

The annual Dubai Duty Free (DDF) Tennis Championships aren’t just about volleys on centre court. It’s also a chance for the community to learn more about the game — and on Wednesday that included more than 130 children from five special needs schools in Dubai.

ATP player Jeremy Chardy led the annual Special Needs Tennis Clinic, which included lessons, lunch, and a meet and greet with the pro player for children from Al Noor, Dubai Centre for Special Needs, Rashid Paediatric Centre, the Dubai Autism Centre, and Al Manzil School.

“It was really nice to play with these kids this morning,” said the Frenchman. “I hope they enjoyed it. It was a really nice atmosphere. To share with them is important and to see them smile was lovely. When you see them smile I am very happy.”

Also joining in were doubles players Dominic Inglot and Robert Lindstedt. The Englishman and Swede did a photograph session and a chat with the children at lunch.

ENTHUSIASTIC RESPONSE

Eighteen-year-old Johann Mendes, of Dubai Centre for Special Needs, has been taking part in the clinic for 11 years. “I had a great day today, and coming to the tennis. I love that I get the opportunity to play with these coaches and players. It keeps myself very active and strong. I feel like a tennis player now. I would like to thank the DDF Tennis Championships for giving us the opportunity to play tennis with you guys. It was a great day.”

Colm McLoughlin, executive vice-chairman of DDF, said: “It is wonderful to see these children enjoying the tennis and being part of the tournament. They have many challenges in life and it is great to see them having such a lovely time”.