Wheelchair Tennis: What’s Happening Right Now?
If you love tennis but haven’t heard much about the wheelchair version, you’re not alone. The good news? It’s growing fast across Africa and the world, with more tournaments, bigger crowds, and inspiring athletes breaking barriers every day.
Key Tournaments to Watch
The biggest spotlight falls on the Grand Slam events that now include wheelchair draws – Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and US Open. In 2025 the African Wheelchair Tennis Open in Nairobi attracted players from Kenya, South Africa and Egypt, delivering tight three‑set battles and a surprise win by newcomer Amina Hassan.
Don’t miss the upcoming Paralympic qualifiers in Lagos next month. Those matches decide who will represent the continent at Paris 2024, and they’re free to stream on the African Sports Network portal.
Top Players Making Waves
South Africa’s own Thabo Mokoena is a fan favourite. He blends powerful serves with incredible court coverage, earning a top‑10 world ranking after his recent win in Johannesburg. On the women’s side, Nigeria’s Grace Ogbogu turned heads at the Lagos Open by beating a former champion in straight sets – proof that talent is spreading beyond traditional tennis hubs.
Youngsters are also stepping up. Kenya’s 16‑year‑old Samir Patel just qualified for his first international event, and his social media following shows how much excitement there is around the next generation of wheelchair athletes.
So why should you tune in? Wheelchair tennis isn’t just another sport; it’s a showcase of skill, strategy and sheer determination. Players use specialized sports wheelchairs that allow quick turns and fast acceleration, making rallies as thrilling as any able‑bodied match.Want to catch the action live? Most African national federations stream matches on YouTube or Facebook Live. For higher‑quality broadcasts, check out the official ITF Wheelchair Tennis channel – they post highlights, player interviews and behind‑the‑scenes footage every week.
Getting involved is easier than you think. Local clubs in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Accra run open‑court sessions where anyone can try a wheelchair or watch a training demo. Many of these events are free and supported by community sponsors eager to grow the sport.
If you’re curious about equipment, the most popular wheelchairs are built from lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber frames with cambered wheels for stability. Brands like Quickie and Invacare dominate the market, but there are also custom builds tailored to each player’s height and playing style.
Finally, remember that wheelchair tennis follows the same rules as regular tennis – two‑bounce rule is the only difference, allowing the ball to bounce twice before a return. That extra bounce creates longer rallies and gives players time to set up powerful shots, which is why many fans say the sport feels even more tactical.
Keep checking ProTouch Sports Africa News for daily updates, match recaps and exclusive interviews with wheelchair tennis stars. Whether you’re a die‑hard fan or just discovering the game, there’s always something fresh to follow in this fast‑moving sport.
