"I try to make a change in the world" – Ons Jabeur on her mission beyond tennis

Ons Jabeur became an ambassador for the World Food Programme (WFP) in 2024, actively participating in events and engagement activities. She is not only a key figure in sports but also a strong advocate for women in the Middle East.

The former world No. 2 was deeply involved in Women’s International Day, speaking about her commitment to tackling global food insecurity, particularly in Africa, where she believes women's involvement is crucial. "I wanted to be able to use my platform and represent the woman I am and where I come from, to try to make a change in the world," Jabeur told BBC Sport Africa.

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"People think it [the WFP] is only related to food, but it's also education and helping women," the three-time Grand Slam finalist added. "When you help women, they get the opportunity to work and provide for the whole family, and that's really important."

The Tunisian player visited a WFP project in Cairo, where she experienced firsthand the organization's initiatives across African countries. "I was preparing bread with one of the women, and you have no idea the big heart that they have," Jabeur said. "She almost gave me everything that she made, and I was like, 'No, please, you keep it. You have to sell it!'"

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"Even though they don't have enough, they were very generous, and that is what everyone should stand for," she added.

The world No. 32 also emphasized the importance of promoting access to education for women in African countries. "A woman went to school at a late age. I told her she was very courageous and that I was very proud that she's going with her kid to school because she never had an education before. That was really a great example," Jabeur said.

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