ABU DHABI // Tennis fans can practise their serve in the lap of luxury with the launch of an academy at Emirates Palace.
Led by former Dutch professional Peter Wessels, the academy’s four courts are already busy with budding players eager to improve their game, drawn by the salubrious surroundings and a luxurious clubhouse.
Wessels said tennis was yet to take hold in the capital, and he was focusing on schools to get more youngsters involved.
“I am really keen to work with 10 to 16-year-olds who are keen to become players,” he said. “We’ve been approaching schools but in general tennis hasn’t been tapped into yet, which is a shame because we have two big events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.”
Egyptian Rania Elbaradey, 38, takes regular lessons with Wessels, who achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No 72 in February 2005. Ms Elbaradey has been playing tennis with her sons, aged 14 and 11, for several years but without coaching. The boys are also being coached by the former pro.
“I feel I’ve improved a lot within a few lessons already,” she said. “The boys have reached a point where they need a professional to help them with techniques for their tournaments.”
She said Wessels’ status and the unique venue made the academy appealing.
Swedish expatriate Stefan Marelid and his son Jacob, 14, have also signed up to play.
“It’s a nice environment,” Mr Marelid said. “I’ve played at tennis venues around Abu Dhabi and this is the nicest. The courts are fresh and clean and it’s a nice atmosphere.”
Until now he had only played with his two teenage sons, yet his game has improved.
“I didn’t expect it to, but playing with Peter twice a week has made me improve a lot,” said Mr Marelid, whose son hopes to improve his game enough to join his school team.
mswan@thenational.ae