The Paris 2024 Paralympic wheelchair tennis competition kicked off on Sunday at Roland Garros, with the world’s top four players showcasing their dominance on the iconic red clay courts. Leading the charge were Alfie Hewett, Tokito Oda, Martín de la Puente, and Gustavo Fernández, all of whom advanced comfortably to the Round of 16.
Hewett Off to a Strong Start
World No. 1 Alfie Hewett made an impressive debut at the Paralympics, winning his first-round match with ease. The British star, hailing from Norwich, lost just one game as he cruised past Israel’s Sergei Lysov in straight sets. Hewett was eager to get started, stating, “I couldn’t wait to get going after just practicing while others were already playing.” Despite not knowing his opponent well, Hewett praised Lysov, noting that the match allowed him to settle into the tournament.
The 26-year-old British player is regarded as one of the favorites to win gold, and his performance on Sunday reinforced his status as the top contender.
Oda: The Rising Star
Japan’s Tokito Oda, the world No. 2, is already being hailed as the heir to the legendary Shingo Kunieda, a four-time Paralympic gold medalist. At just 18, Oda has already claimed two French Open singles titles and is seen as a rising superstar in the world of para tennis. According to France’s top wheelchair tennis player, Stéphane Houdet, “Para tennis players are real superstars in Japan, and Kunieda’s success has been a huge boost for the sport.”
In his opening match, Oda faced a tough challenge from Britain’s Ben Bartram. After taking the first set 6-2, the Japanese teenager found himself in a tight battle in the second, which was eventually decided in a tie-break. Oda held his nerve to win the match 6-2, 7-6 (4). Reflecting on the contest, Oda said, “He played really well, it was great tennis.” Despite the challenge, the young Japanese player remains focused on his ultimate goal of Paralympic glory.
Other Top Seeds Shine
Spain’s Martín de la Puente and Argentina’s Gustavo Fernández, ranked third and fourth in the world, respectively, also secured their spots in the next round. De la Puente, who has been in fine form throughout the season, comfortably won his first-round match, while Fernández, a former world No. 1, looked sharp as he advanced.
As the competition progresses, these top players are expected to continue their impressive form, setting the stage for thrilling battles in the later rounds. With Hewett and Oda leading the pack, the race for Paralympic gold is heating up at Roland Garros.
