With more than 500 children across 12 different Dubai schools taking part, the annual JP Morgan Kids’ Day took place once again on the first day of ATP 500 Week at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
For more than an hour amid cheers from their friends and peers, a selection of young tennis enthusiasts and their teachers engaged in games and activities that tested their competitive spirit and sportsmanship. Showcasing excitement and energy, the dozen schools went head-to-head in a tennis relay that served as the perfect warm-up before being joined by former doubles World No1 Matt Ebden and playing partner Joran Vliegen.
Slated to play against British duo Neal Skupski and Joe Salisbury on Tuesday, Australia’s Ebden and Vliegan of Belgium took time out from their preparations to enjoy a fun-filled morning. After taking the enthusiastic children through their paces, Vliegan – a three-time Grand Slam doubles finalist – said he hopes the youngsters continue to explore the sport.
“This is a great initiative for the tournament,” he said. “Personally, I was pleasantly surprised to see such a big turnout of kids, so it shows we’re on the right track. I’ve already seen some great talent out on court and I’m happy I was able to spend some time with them, play a few rallies, and hopefully inspire some young kids to take up the game.”
Mirroring his partner’s sentiment, 37-year-old Ebden revealed this year’s event was one of the best he has taken part in anywhere around the world. “It’s so great to see all these kids passionate and motivated for tennis,” he said. “As a young kid, being part of a big tennis community was so inspiring for me, and I think that shared experience really brings out your physical and social skills and love for sports.”
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