Former tennis pro Katrina Adams is delighted to be back in Bermuda to assist in what she believes is a worthy cause – the Elbow Beach Celebrity Tennis Classic.

Adams, a 21-time Women's Tennis Association (WTA) doubles champion, arrived on the Island on Monday to prepare for the spectacle.

Talking about her past and her previous visits to the Island, the Chicago native who now resides in Florida, said she strongly believed in events such as the Classic that helped the betterment of the sport and junior athletes.

"I have had wonderful experiences coming to Bermuda," she said. "It's a beautiful Island with such kind hearted people.

"I look forward to coming here for the Celebrity Classic annually and sharing time with other celebrities.

"My first priority is to support such a worthy cause that David Lambert (Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association president) and his family, staff, friends and committee have worked so hard to make a success. It's important for celebrities to give back.

"Tennis is such a wonderful sport for youth because it teaches them so many life skills.

"It teaches one how to be self disciplined, self motivated, it builds self esteem and many other wonderful qualities to be a confident individual.

"In the process, one is also learning how to play a wonderful sport for life. It doesn't matter if you're from Bermuda or Timbuktu, I feel that it is essential to have the opportunity to play and excel in the sport."

The 41-year-old, who has been a commentator on the Tennis Channel, was on hand at the recently completed US Open and brought with her items signed by current professionals including autographs from sisters Venus and Serena Williams.

The items will be auctioned off at the Black Tie dinner on Saturday.

Along with stepping on the court for an exhibition match, Adams will give a few pointers to local kids who will be in attendance at a clinic tomorrow.

Adams said camaraderie between the stars was "extremely good" with each athlete understanding the stress and strain it takes to make it to the top level.

This may change, however, once they take to the court where bragging rights will be determined.

But Adams, for one, isn't going to be trying to turn back the hands of time and play like she did in her prime.

"It's always nice being able to spend time with other champions of their sport. There is an automatic bond that is established because you understand the hard work and dedication that they have put into their sport as I have put into mine.

"A competitive athlete is always a competitive athlete no matter what activity we're participating in. There is always a moment when the fire is ignited but at our age, we're no fools and we tone it down a lot more now, especially in these types of events.

"I can't say that I've had bad experiences in the sport and I definitely don't have any regrets.

"Yes, I would have loved to have won a major or two but things happen for a reason. My success in the sport has taken me to places that I wouldn't have dreamed of going, including here. I am blessed to have travelled the path that I have.

"You never know how life changes with greater success because you become more guarded.

"I'm happy with what I have accomplished, which is a lot."

The Classic begins tonight with a reception at the Bacardi Building followed by clinics and exhibition matches at the WER Joell Stadium from tomorrow through to Sunday.