As part of the Zonguldak–France Cooperation Workshop, an important panel was held highlighting the role of sports in social and economic transformation. Sport was addressed not only as a physical activity but also as a powerful impact tool that enhances social inclusion, supports youth employment, empowers women, and accelerates local development.

On 14 October, the panel titled “The Transformative Power of Sports: Tennis, Local Development and Social Impact”, was moderated by Tuğçe Söğüt, Secretary General of EYDK. During the session, Şafak Müderrisgil, Chair of EYDK and President of the Turkish Tennis Federation, underlined that tennis is not only a sport but also a catalyst for social inclusion and regional development through an impact investing perspective.

The session also discussed the planned Tennis Village and Academy in Zonguldak, envisioned not merely as a sports facility but as part of the region’s broader transformation. It was emphasized that by fostering public–private cooperation, impact-oriented models can be developed and sports can play a key role in strengthening social cohesion and generating lasting social impact.