In a gripping men’s wheelchair tennis singles final at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Japan’s Tokito Oda claimed victory over Britain’s Alfie Hewett with a 6-2, 4-6, 7-5 scoreline, denying Hewett his second gold medal of the Games.
Oda, just 18 years old, showcased his resilience by overcoming Hewett, who had initially taken the lead. The British player, hindered by a groin injury early in the match, fought valiantly to push the final into a third set. However, despite having match points and being just inches away from victory, Hewett couldn’t close out the game.
Reflecting on the match, Hewett expressed mixed emotions, stating, “I was so close to winning, just inches away from the gold. But the atmosphere was incredible, and I fought until the end. I’m proud of my effort, even if the result wasn’t what I hoped for.”
Oda, who had previously lost to Hewett in the doubles final alongside his partner Takuya Miki, appeared determined to avenge that defeat. Despite Hewett’s early momentum and a hard-fought second set, Oda’s power and strategic play ultimately led him to victory. The match reached a dramatic climax in the final set when Oda managed to break Hewett’s serve at a critical moment, sealing his win.
The atmosphere inside the Philippe Chatrier Court was electric, with the crowd shifting their support towards the young Japanese player. Oda, energized by the crowd’s encouragement, rallied to secure the final set and the gold medal. After the match, he celebrated by throwing his racket across the court in jubilation, a moment that highlighted the emotional intensity of the contest.
Despite the loss, Hewett remained gracious in defeat. He acknowledged the disappointment of missing out on gold by a narrow margin but emphasized the broader significance of the match. “Sometimes, it’s about more than just personal victories. Our sport gained visibility today, and that’s something to be proud of,” Hewett remarked.
The thrilling encounter between Oda and Hewett captivated audiences, underscoring the high level of competition and the spirit of the Paralympics.
