In a country still navigating the aftermath of political instability, economic turmoil, and the enduring scars of conflict, tennis in Lebanon faces an uphill battle. Limited public facilities, insufficient resources, and a lack of structured support have hampered the growth of the sport for years. Yet, amidst these challenges, the Lebanese Tennis Federation, led by President Alain Sayegh, is charting a course to revitalise tennis and showcase the nation’s talent on the global stage.

Lebanon’s socio-economic challenges have deeply impacted sports development, making the Federation’s work both vital and formidable. Sayegh highlighted the organisation’s vision to rebuild tennis in Lebanon from the ground up. “We are focused on two key strategies: nurturing homegrown talent within existing clubs through our national coaches and leveraging the Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI) program of the International Tennis Federation. This involves reaching out to schools and communities across Lebanon,” he explained.

A Nationwide and Diaspora Approach to Talent Development

The Federation is also implementing a comprehensive talent identification program targeting children as young as six. “We’ve designed an extensive program to scout and develop young players across federated and non-federated clubs, schools, and regions nationwide,” Sayegh said. This proactive approach ensures that tennis has a grassroots foundation, fostering passion and skill from an early age.

Recognising the vast Lebanese diaspora, the Federation is broadening its talent search to include Lebanese players living abroad. “The Lebanese diaspora spans the globe—in Australia, the United States, Canada, Europe, and South America. To tap into this potential, we are forming a scouting and talent identification committee to connect with players who have Lebanese heritage and citizenship,” Sayegh revealed.

Celebrating Success and Inspiring Future Generations

Despite the nation’s obstacles, the Lebanese Tennis Federation has produced remarkable players who have made their mark on the global stage. Notable athletes include Benjamin Hassan, who has competed in major international tournaments, and Hadi Habib, who recently advanced to the second round of the Australian Open. Their achievements reflect the quality and potential of Lebanese tennis, serving as a beacon of hope for the sport’s future in the country.

With its unwavering dedication, the Lebanese Tennis Federation is determined to overcome challenges and elevate tennis in Lebanon to new heights. By investing in local talent, engaging the global Lebanese community, and fostering a culture of excellence, the Federation is paving the way for a brighter future for tennis in Lebanon.