Be Legendary Touches Down in Paris
Magic happens when tennis history comes alive for the next generation. This week, the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s (ITHF) global youth initiative, Be Legendary, touched down in Paris for the very first time, delivering an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience for local youth with Hall of Famer Yannick Noah.
In partnership with Fête le Mur, the youth development organization founded by Noah in 1996, the program connected young players with tennis history, character-building values, and mentorship from one of the sport's most iconic champions.
Be Legendary is designed to empower young people through engaging educational activities and memorable experiences on and off the court. Working alongside local partners, the program helps participants build self-confidence, explore their full potential, and forge a lifelong connection to tennis.
From the Classroom to the World Stage
Before stepping onto the court, participants immersed themselves in an interactive history session celebrating Yannick Noah’s extraordinary journey. The kids learned how Noah was discovered as a promising junior by the legendary Arthur Ashe, captured the 1983 Roland-Garros title, and always maintained sportsmanship and gratitude for his opportunities.
That inspiration soared as the group visited the early rounds of the Rolex Paris Masters. Soaking in the electric tournament atmosphere, they caught a firsthand look at the world’s top ATP players in action, including French standout Benjamin Bonzi, bringing the values discussed in their classroom sessions to life on the global stage.
On-Court Magic with Yannick Noah
The highlight of the week arrived Wednesday with an unforgettable afternoon of energy, mentorship, and joy on the court. Noah led a meaningful session at the TC Comité de Paris focusing on gratitude, joy, and the people who helped shape his journey.
“It is important to share. You arrive at a moment in your life when it is about transmitting. Tennis is a game, tennis is fun. Even though some of us decided to make it professionally, fun is what is most important. It’s important for the kids to have fun. Sometimes, they ask me what do I like about tennis, and I like that I made friends.
I’m really proud to be part of the International Tennis Hall of Fame family and to keep doing the good work.”
- Yannick Noah
Stepping into the action, Noah wowed the kids by demonstrating a signature tweener shot, encouraging them to have the courage to try something brand new. Energy shifted into high gear as players rotated through drills and tried the tweener on their own under his guidance. The day concluded with a thoughtful Q&A, where participants shared reflections about the mentors and supporters helping them grow on and off the court.
“The day was really great! It was very interesting to meet the players, especially Yannick and Patrick McEnroe, and to be able to hit with them too. It was a great honor, a really great day, an experience that will be etched in my memory forever."
- Bilel, Féte le Mur participant
