Sri Lanka’s wheelchair tennis makes remarkable progress

Sri Lanka’s wheelchair tennis players are no longer just part of the game—they are making headlines. Once seen as underdogs, they are now proving they can compete with the best in the world.

Sri Lanka has made remarkable progress in wheelchair tennis, thanks to the dedication of the Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA), players, and coaches. “The sport continues to gain momentum, and with increased investment in facilities, coaching, and international competition, Sri Lanka is building a strong foundation for long-term growth,” said Anastasia Rentouli, Senior Coordinator for Wheelchair Tennis at the International Tennis Federation (ITF).

Sri Lanka’s men’s team has hit a major milestone—earning direct entry into the 2025 BNP Paribas World Team Cup World Group in Antalya, Türkiye. This means they can skip the BNP Paribas Asia/Oceania Qualification event in Colombo. “It’s a significant achievement that highlights Sri Lanka’s growing strength in the sport,” Rentouli added.

Ahead of the World Team Cup Qualification, the SLTA hosted three UNIQLO Wheelchair Tennis Tour Futures events. Suresh Dharmasena stole the show, sweeping all three singles titles and claiming a doubles title with Gamini Dissanayake. “These results highlight the strength and potential of Sri Lankan players. With continued exposure to top-tier competition and sustained investment in their development, they can close the gap with the world’s best,” Rentouli explained.

Hosting international wheelchair tennis events is doing more than just showcasing talent—it’s shifting perspectives. “It raises awareness of disability sports, shifts the focus from disability to ability, and highlights the remarkable skill and competitiveness of wheelchair tennis players,” Rentouli said. “Watching these athletes perform at the highest level can be truly inspiring, especially for young people with disabilities, encouraging them to take up the sport, stay active, and reach their full potential.”

These events also spark important conversations about accessibility and inclusion. “They provide invaluable experience for local players competing against top-tier opponents, accelerating their development, while giving local organizers the opportunity to gain experience in hosting world-class sporting events,” Rentouli added.

This week, the SLTA is hosting some of the biggest names in wheelchair tennis. Japan’s Yui Kamiji, the women’s world No. 1 and Paris 2024 Paralympic gold medalist, will be in action alongside men’s world No. 9 and silver medalist Takuya Miki. “I encourage everyone to visit the SLTA facilities and witness this incredible showcase of world-class wheelchair tennis this weekend,” Rentouli urged.

Sri Lanka’s wheelchair tennis journey is gathering speed. With talent, determination, and continued investment, they are on the fast track to success—one match at a time.

Source:Daily News