Ghana’s next generation of tennis stars was given a powerful boost last Saturday as Katrina Adams, former President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the United States Tennis Association (USTA), and Roger Smith, ex-coach of Grand Slam ace Madison Keys, rolled out the Elevate Ghana Tennis Tour at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The duo launched the Elevate Ghana Tennis Tour, a five-day youth clinic, at the Accra Sports Stadium last Saturday, drawing over 100 children aged between two and 10 from across the country.
The event, backed by the Africa10 Foundation in partnership with the Ghana Tennis Federation (GTF), is fast gaining recognition as a game-changer for youth tennis development in Ghana.
With racquets in hand and eyes full of hope, many of the youngsters took to the court for the very first time — and they could not have better mentors than two of tennis’ most respected minds.
Katrina, also a broadcaster and former top 100 player, teamed up with Smith, who once coached Australian Open semi-finalist, Madison Keys, to deliver a holistic training experience.
From the basics of racquet grips to powerful baseline shots, the clinic was more than just drills and routines. Adams placed strong emphasis on mental fortitude and composure, key ingredients for success at the highest level.
“Tennis is not just about skill, it’s about staying calm and focused when it matters most,” she told the young hopefuls.
Participants were also taken through aerobics, physical conditioning and lessons on tennis rules, ensuring they left the court with more than just sore muscles—they left inspired and informed.
In an exclusive interview, Adams was full of praise for Ghana’s untapped potential, especially among young girls. “Ghana has incredible young talent, and the growth of tennis here is imminent,” she told the Graphic Sports.
“Girls must be encouraged to embrace the sport. Look at Coco Gauff and Madison Keys—young, Black and winning on the biggest stages. Representation matters,” she said.
The GTF President, Isaac Duah, was equally optimistic, hailing the clinic as a major boost for Ghana’s tennis ambitions. “We’re witnessing a turning point. These children are learning from the very best, and the excitement is tangible,” he said, adding, “We’re especially grateful to
Katrina Adams and Roger Smith for this commitment. We hope this becomes an annual affair.”
For the President of the Africa10 Foundation, Shanthi Annan, the clinic is about creating a lasting impact. “This is more than a tennis tour,” she noted.
“It’s a movement to uplift Ghana’s youth, sharpen local talent and put African tennis on the global map.”
Parents watching from the sidelines couldn’t hide their joy, many calling the event a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for their children to learn discipline, focus and self-belief through sport.
With the tour running until June 24, 2025, activities such as friendly matches and interactive coaching sessions are lined up to keep the energy high.
The programme will wrap up with a celebratory closing ceremony, showcasing the children's progress and charting a roadmap for the future of Ghanaian tennis.
Katrina and Smith’s visit has not only brought world-class tennis to Accra — it has sparked a movement. One that could soon see Ghana’s young hopefuls stepping onto the world stage, inspired by the likes of Gauff and Keys, and proudly carrying the nation’s flag to new heights.
