Tennis, with its roots tracing back to 12th-century France, has evolved into a global phenomenon, renowned for its grace, strategy, and athleticism.

“Once you start and love tennis, you cannot leave it. Even if you are sick and have a fever, you will find yourself on the tennis court,” says Zoulfiqar Ahmad, the legendary tennis coach who has been in #Jeddah since 1984.

High intensity championships such as Wimbledon, Australian Open and Roland-Garros, alongside an array of incredible athletes like the Williams sisters, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, have only served to solidify international interest, bringing an old-school sport, previously reserved for the wealthy into a new era.

“Even mentally, when you play tennis, you become reenergised. You forget about what is going on in the world” says Ahmad.

Throughout its rich history, tennis has seen numerous adaptations and innovations, but perhaps none as impactful as the rise of padel. Originating in Mexico in the late 1960s, padel combines elements of tennis and squash, played on a smaller court enclosed by walls. And recently, padel has swiftly gained popularity, due to its accessibility and social appeal.

Zoulfiqar admits tennis is a quieter game with perhaps less camaraderie than its more popular, and perhaps more accessible sister sport of padel. “In padel you talk, you laugh, you get to relax as well.” He also acknowledges padel has more give and take. “In tennis, if you hit one good serve or good stroke then the game is finished. Whereas, in padel, if you hit, the game isn’t done. When the ball hits the wall and comes back, you get to play again.”

Read our full interview with Zoulfiqa Ahmad right here