LTA Tennis Foundation partners meet Serena WIliams at HSBC Championships Opened Up
• 3 minute read
Alongside the exhibition match on the Andy Murray Arena during HSBC Championships Opened up, a range of special experiences took place across the grounds, giving LTA Tennis Foundation partners unforgettable behind-the-scenes access to the HSBC Championships.
Three young people, two from The Queen’s Club Foundation and one from Karmabank were given a rare insight into the world of elite tennis media.
In an unforgettable moment, the group was invited to attend a live press conference with Serena Williams. Sitting in front row, they listened as Serena spoke about her journey and return to tennis, before being given the chance to ask their own questions.
One particularly memorable moment came from a 10-year-old player, who asked: “I like running around loads in tennis, do you like that to and are you looking forward to doing lots of it now you are back?” The question brought smiles across the room, with Serena laughing as she replied: “I definitely don't like running! In my game, I ran a lot if I needed to, but I'm not like looking forward to running. I'm fast, and I enjoyed it, but why do it?”
Other questions included, what was the most important thing someone said to you that helped you get to where you are now, and who are you most looking forward to playing against in the tournament.
On-court experiences
The grass courts at The Queen’s Club are among the most iconic in tennis, and stepping onto them is a rare opportunity. For one partner, Karmabank, that became a reality.
A group of six young people associated with Karmabank were invited onto Court 10, where they met former world No.3 Maria Sakkari. The group had the chance to ask Maria questions about life as a professional tennis player – from her favourite snacks (crisps, although she jokes, she only eats them once a year) to what it takes to compete at the highest level.
After posing for photos and signing tennis balls and caps, Maria headed off to continue her tournament preparations. The experience didn’t end there. The group remained on court for a 20-minute coaching session delivered by Metro Coaching, giving them the chance to take part in fun interactive drills and games.
Playing on a world-class grass court, and in the same environment as elite players is an experience very few young people get to enjoy, making it a truly special moment for everyone involved.
Andrew Standen-Raz, CEO & Founder of Karmabank, said: “Opportunities like this are incredibly special for the young people we work with. To see them step onto a court like this and fully embrace the experience was fantastic – it’s something they’ll remember for a long time.”
The group then headed to Centre Court to watch the action unfold, rounding off a memorable day at the Championships.
Bringing together world-class tennis with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the HSBC Championships Opened Up event showcased the powerful role the sport can play beyond the court.
For LTA Tennis Foundation partners and the young people they support, the day was about more than just access - it was about inspiration, confidence and feeling part of something special. Moments like these highlight the lasting impact tennis can have in changing lives and opening doors to new opportunities.
