Ivorian duo of Kevine Danho and Souleymane Tinde emerged as champions of the first official Padel Accra Open on Sunday evening.

After more than an hour of intense gameplay and exchanging fiery shots, Danho and Tinde outperformed Ghana’s top-ranked padel player, Daniel Quartey, and his partner, John Paul, to clinch the championship.

Danho attributed their victory to their years of experience in the sport.

“John Paul and Daniel have a good level; they are playing very well. They had a good start but after some time, experience started talking for us.”

The four-day tournament began on Thursday, February 29 after the Professional Padel Association of Ghana was launched at the S2 Sports Complex in Spintex.

Ninety-four participants from across the continent were grouped into junior, semi-professional, and professional categories, for both males and females, to compete for the medals at stake.

In the women's category, champion Sonia Said expressed her hope for increased female participation in future championships.

“The level was actually very high, we had a very tough game and I’m very proud we have finally won. I hope we gonna get more women into the padel community.”

The Association’s President, Jean Noel Said praised the high level of competition observed during the tournament.

“The turnout was outstanding from both categories. The matches were amazing, the ambiance is great and everybody turned up. We are just satisfied and we are looking to grow the game a bit more next time.

The successful hosting of the inaugural Padel Accra Open marks the birth of a new sport in Ghana.

Organizers have announced plans for a regular championship aimed at developing talent for a national team.

The first official Padel competition in Ghana concluded on Sunday evening with some fascinating outcomes.

The four-day tournament took place at the S2 Sports Complex in Spintex. @_benin_ has more.#JoySports pic.twitter.com/fLrFJ57pmJ

— #JoySports (@JoySportsGH) March 5, 2024