By Nii Otoe Bruce-Tagoe

Ghana’s junior tennis team touched down at the Kotoka International Airport to a warm and emotional reception, closing their memorable campaign at the ITF/CAT African Junior Championships in Morocco. Although they finished as runners-up, the team returned home carrying the pride of a nation and the admiration of all who followed their journey.

At the arrivals hall, they were received by the President of the Ghana Tennis Federation, Mr. Isaac Aboagye-Duah, along with the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of Tennis. Also present was the father of team player Jefter Dowouna, who stood proudly among the officials and supporters to welcome the boys home. Their presence highlighted the weight of the team’s achievement and the strong support system behind Ghana’s junior tennis development.

From the airport, the delegation made a symbolic and heartfelt stop.

In a gesture of gratitude and deep respect, the team and the GTF President visited the studio of internationally celebrated Ghanaian artist Amoako Boafo, a key supporter whose timely contributions played a major role in the team’s preparation before their departure for Morocco. In recognition of his unwavering support, the players presented him with their silver trophy, handing it to him as a shared victory.

Mr. Aboagye-Duah offered sincere words of appreciation, thanking Boafo for “his exceptional and selfless commitment” to the team. “Your support strengthened these boys when they needed it most,” he said. “This achievement reflects your belief in them.”

Amoako Boafo, visibly proud, applauded the team’s determination and growth. “You have made Ghana proud,” he told the players. “As long as you continue to show progress and discipline, my support will remain firm. This journey has only begun.”

The celebration continued at the Accra Sports Stadium, where the United Kingdom was observing its annual Sports Day. There, the team received the distinguished honour of meeting His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh, who congratulated them on their impressive second-place finish. He commended their hard work, mental strength, and rising potential, remarking that such performances signal a bright future for Ghanaian tennis.

From the runway at Kotoka to the doors of a global art icon, and finally into the presence of royalty, the day marked a powerful chapter in Ghana’s junior tennis story, one defined by resilience, gratitude, and global recognition.

Ghana’s young stars returned not just with silver medals, but with renewed confidence, knowing that their country, their leaders, their families, and even international figures stand firmly behind their journey to the top of African tennis.