Felix Auger-Aliassime and Jack Draper delight young fans at Dubai clinic
Youth training session lights up Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium
DUBAI – Ahead of the ATP 500 men’s event at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, two of the sport’s leading names stepped off the professional stage and on to the practice courts to meet the next generation.
Former World No. 6 Felix Auger-Aliassime and British No. 1 Jack Draper surprised a group of young players during a dedicated clinic at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, creating an unforgettable experience just days before the main draw begins.
The appearance, held on 22 February 2026, formed part of the build-up to the ATP 500 tournament, which runs from 23-28 February. Instead of preparing in isolation, both players chose to spend part of their pre-tournament schedule engaging directly with juniors, joining drills, offering guidance and sharing moments on court that blended elite performance with youthful enthusiasm.
On-court inspiration
The clinic saw Auger-Aliassime and Draper actively participate in training routines, rallying with youngsters and demonstrating techniques during structured sessions. For many of the children, the session marked their first opportunity to interact so closely with established ATP professionals.
Draper reflected on how formative such encounters can be. He recalled being around Andy Murray at the National Tennis Centre during his own childhood, an experience that left a lasting impression.
“I remember being around Andy Murray when I was younger at the National Tennis Centre,” Draper said. “I didn’t actually take part in a clinic, but I think it’s really amazing to give back, especially to young players. I remember when I was much younger and how inspiring it was to be around players like that. The kids were amazing, and I think they definitely learned something. It was also really nice to see their reactions.”
He explained that he was between 10 and 13 years old when he met Murray, roughly the same age as many of the participants in Dubai. The moment, he noted, made his own ambitions feel tangible.
“I remember feeling like my dream was becoming a little more real after meeting him. Just being in his presence definitely made me want to play even more, because I looked up to him so much.”
Lessons shared
Beyond the excitement of meeting top-ranked players, the session focused on practical learning. Draper encouraged the youngsters to maintain perspective as they pursue the sport.
“Just enjoy your tennis, keep it simple, listen to the people who are trying to help you, and most importantly, have fun and enjoy it,” he told them.
Auger-Aliassime, who reached the Dubai final last year, described the event as particularly meaningful. Reflecting on his own development in Canada, he noted that he did not have similar opportunities to train alongside elite professionals during his early years.
“A lot of kids were good players,” he said. “They have bright futures in front of them. They were all happy to see us, and it’s nice to share some time with them because of the innocence of being a kid and having this dream of being a tennis player. It’s very nice to see smiles on their faces, and they have good energy on the court. There could be professional players in that group.”
He emphasised that while inspirational encounters can spark motivation, consistent effort remains central to progress.
“I mean, it’s nice and it’s inspiring. Some of them can take a little bit of inspiration from this, but the most important thing is what they do every day, with their coaches and their families, what time they put in every day, that’s the most important.”
Young dreams
Among the participants was 10-year-old Megan Uzokwe, who described the surprise arrival of the two stars as a moment she would not forget.
“I was really surprised when they arrived. I felt amazing and so happy,” she said. “I learned new techniques, especially volleys, and I think I’ll remember this experience forever.”
For the young players, the clinic offered more than technical pointers. It provided proximity to athletes who compete on some of the biggest stages in world tennis, reinforcing that the pathway from junior courts to professional arenas is built on dedication, discipline and belief.
The initiative underlined the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships’ continued focus on youth development and community engagement. By integrating grassroots activities into the tournament calendar, organisers ensure that the event extends beyond elite competition and into the wider sporting community.
Attention now turns to the ATP 500 men’s tournament, staged at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium from 23-28 February. Tickets are currently on sale, with prices starting from Dh65.