In the heart of Takoradi, a new chapter in Ghanaian tennis is being written by two extraordinary sisters — Niara Aoki Akati Sangari (10) and Renée Akati Sangari (12).
In just two and a half years, the Sangari sisters have captured over ten trophies, dominating Ghana’s junior tennis circuit and setting their sights firmly on global success.
A Sibling Rivalry Forging Champions
At the recent Donkor Tennis Education Foundation Invitational Girls U14 Final, the sisters once again showcased their electrifying talent and fierce competitive spirit. In a thrilling match, 10-year-old Niara — a powerhouse well beyond her years — outlasted her older sister Renée to claim the title.
The victory marked Niara’s third consecutive U14 girls’ finals win, with Renée as her formidable opponent in two of those encounters.
Far from a friendly family match, their battles are a crucible of ambition and skill, each pushing the other to new heights. “They are each other’s toughest challenge,” said their father and coach,
Mr Tallal Sangari. Together, the sisters have transformed Ghana’s junior tennis scene into their personal proving ground, leaving no doubt about their potential to rise further.
A Family Engineered for Success
The Sangari sisters’ ascent is powered by a family structure reminiscent of tennis’s greatest dynasties.
Their father, Mr. Tallal Sangari, a self-taught coach, takes inspiration from legends — Muhammad Ali’s confidence, Kobe Bryant’s “Mamba mentality”, and Richard Williams’s visionary approach to raising champions.
He describes his daughters as a blend of “determination, work ethic, and kind spirits.”
While Mr. Sangari sharpens their on-court prowess, their mother plays an equally vital role behind the scenes.
Overseeing their homeschooling, she also guides their physical and mental conditioning through her yoga and Pilates practice (@mahraba.move on Instagram), ensuring they maintain peak fitness, balance, and recovery.
The Road to Wimbledon and Beyond
Niara and Renée share a bold dream: to compete on the WTA Tour, step onto Wimbledon’s iconic grass courts, and one day lift Grand Slam trophies.
But their dominance on Ghana’s junior circuit is only the beginning. To cultivate the tactical sharpness and emotional resilience needed at the elite level, they must face tougher and more diverse opponents in tournaments across Europe, North America, and beyond.
However, that journey comes with major challenges. While the Africa 10 Foundation offers some support, the sisters urgently need broader financial backing to fund international travel, training, and exposure. Without it, their progress toward the WTA could stall — just as they stand on the brink of greatness.
A Call to Support Ghana’s Rising Stars
The Sangari sisters represent more than just a feel-good story — they embody a milestone in the making for Ghanaian sports.
With their raw talent, unrelenting drive, and strong family support, they have everything it takes to make history. What they need now is the chance to compete globally and bring their dreams — and Ghana’s hopes — to life.
Follow their journey on Instagram @thesangariway
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