KARACHI: In a sporting landscape where even able-bodied athletes struggle to make ends meet, it’s even more tougher for handicapped athletes. However, Pakistan’s wheelchair tennis players are refusing to be ignored, bringing pride to the nation and defying the shadows of neglect.

The KC Jinko Solar National Juniors and Seniors Tennis Championship, currently underway here, is a testament to their resilience. On the second day, Pakistan’s top-seeded wheelchair tennis player, Fida Hussain, dominated the courts at the KPT Sports Complex on Saturday, clinching two impressive wins.

Fida’s unstoppable run saw him defeat Muham­mad Ayub 3-0 and Rashid 2-0, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with in the tournament.

However, Fida’s thoughts were already racing ahead to the bigger picture.

“With our Rs150,000 wheelchairs, we beat India, where they had top-grade Rs1.5 million wheelchairs,” he said while talking to Dawn, his voice filled with a mix of excitement and concern. “If we receive the same support and sponsorship, we can win countless medals for Pakistan.”

Fida’s words echoed the sentiments of Muha­mmad Khalid Rehmani, vice president of the Pakistan Tennis Federation, who highlighted the country’s impressive record in wheelchair tennis.

“We have defeated India, Thailand, and Hong Kong and competed at the 2023 Asian Para Games,” Rehmani noted while talking to Dawn.

Despite these achievements, Fida’s plea for improved sponsorship resonated deeply.

Syed Sakhawat Ali, coordinator of Sindh Wheelchair Tennis, shed light on the efforts being made to support athletes.

“We compensate for their travel and other expenses, such as food, accommodation, rackets, and wheelchairs,” he told Dawn.

Dr. Salman Kareem Mughal, coach and caretaker for all regions, underscored the transformative power of wheelchair tennis.

“Several of these players were depressed, absolutely poor, and struggling with drug addictions, but they have discovered a new purpose and respect in society through wheelchair tennis,” he told Dawn. “We’ve literally changed their lives.”

Published in Dawn, September 23rd, 2024