Moise Kouame’s talent was evident from a young age, catching the eye of François Rouhier during a scouting session in Val-d’Oise. Rouhier noted that even at a young age, Kouame was selected not just for his effectiveness but for his natural ability and enjoyment of the game.
Early Training and Development
Rouhier followed Kouame’s progress at the Cergy departmental committee for three years. Erwan Rebuffé, who coached Kouame for two seasons at the Tennis Club Sarcellois, noted that Kouame trained with players a year older than him. Rebuffé considered Kouame to be among the most promising young players he had trained.
Rebuffé highlighted Kouame’s exceptional technical ability, composure, and eagerness to learn. He noted Kouame’s politeness, respectfulness, curiosity, and technical ability, including his ability to slide on hard courts and hit strong forehands. Rebuffé also noted that Kouame was already capable of questioning himself.
Kouame comes from a tennis-loving family. His mother, Suzanne, was heavily involved in his development, often bringing her children to the club on weekends to play together. Rebuffé would regularly pick Kouame up from school at lunchtime for training. He observed that Kouame loved school, but was disappointed when training ended. Rebuffé said when Kouame lost a match, he would be angry, but five minutes later, he would return to playing against the wall or mini-tennis with a friend, displaying an incredible mindset.
‘Matcheur’ – A Competitor on the Court
Bruce Liaud, who worked with Kouame at the Pôle France de Poitiers and with the French national team for players under 16, noted Kouame’s competitive nature. Liaud said that Kouame had a refusal to lose and elevated his game during matches.
Liaud said that Kouame had and still has the ability to be better at the end of sets, and to not miss important moments.
- Born in 2009 in Sarcelles
- Trained at Tennis Club Sarcellois
- Recognised for his exceptional skills and competitive spirit
Those who have trained Kouame used the word “matcheur” to describe what set him apart. He demonstrated calmness and maturity during key moments of his first-round match against Marin Cilic.