The French tennis player was in Saint-Laurent-du-Var on July 5th for the “Beach Sport Festival”. It was an opportunity to encourage sports practice among young people as a sponsor of the event, but also to represent his association “Attrap’la Balle.”
Originally from Le Mans, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was a professional tennis player from 2004 to 2022. Having retired from the professional circuit last year, he is considered the best French tennis player of his generation. He remains the most titled among the French players after Yannick Noah. The top athlete won 18 singles titles and reached numerous finals, including the Australian Open in 2008.
Can you explain your presence here, this desire to encourage sports practice among young people?
This desire simply comes from my experience. As a child, I could have easily veered off the sporting path I took. It’s important for young people to engage in at least one activity. It allows for many things, especially learning to live in society. Sport is an essential vector in the education of young people today.
Does seeing these young people exchanging balls and enjoying themselves remind you of your early days in tennis?
Yes, absolutely. Besides that, I’ve experienced something similar. When I was young, a great player came to my tennis club. It left a strong impression on me. I know it can create vocations, or at least a desire to be interested in sports, so I hope that’s the case here too.
You represent your association “Attrap’la Balle,” can you explain what it entails?
This association aims to support young people in a sports-focused journey. We can help with obtaining scholarships or enabling children to obtain licenses, especially those who can’t afford them.
Founded by your parents, we imagine it’s a pride to see it continue?
Of course, it’s certainly a pride. I saw this association come to life and helped my parents in their respective activities. I had a lot less time when I was a player, it was complicated to be there. It’s true that today I’m trying to invest a bit more to further help the youth.
What are the main projects planned for the future by the association?
The objective is really to continue to fully support young people in their activities. I often tell them it’s good to have dreams, but the goal is still to be able to turn them into projects. We want to do even more, increase the numbers to instill sport in each of them.