Wheelchair Tennis: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever wondered what wheelchair tennis looks like on court, you’re in the right spot. It’s fast, fierce, and totally inclusive—players use specially designed wheelchairs and follow most of the same rules as able‑body tennis, with one key twist: they get two bounces instead of one.

The Basics of Wheelchair Tennis

In wheelchair tennis, the court dimensions stay the same, and players serve underhand or overhand just like in regular tennis. The only rule change is that after the ball lands, you can let it bounce twice before hitting it back. Most of the time the second bounce happens outside the baseline, so you still need sharp reflexes and good positioning.

Wheelchairs are built for speed and stability. They have cambered wheels, quick‑release axles, and a low centre of gravity to help players turn tightly around the court. The sport is governed by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), which runs a full tour with rankings, prize money, and Grand Slam events.

Top Players and Biggest Tournaments

Names like Dylan Alcott from Australia and Esther Vergeer from the Netherlands dominate headlines. Alcott has multiple Grand Slam titles and a Paralympic gold medal, while Vergeer retired with an unbeaten streak that lasted over a decade.

The biggest stages are the wheelchair draws at the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. These tournaments draw huge crowds, live TV coverage, and plenty of social media buzz. In Africa, South Africa’s Wheelchair Tennis Association is pushing to host more ITF events, giving local talent a chance to shine on the world stage.

Want to follow the action? Major broadcasters stream matches on YouTube, ESPN+, or local sports channels. Social platforms also post highlights daily—just type in the tournament name and “wheelchair” to catch the latest clips.

If you’re thinking about trying wheelchair tennis yourself, start by finding a club that offers adaptive programs. Many national federations have beginner clinics, and some universities provide loaner wheelchairs for newcomers. A basic set‑up includes a sturdy wheelchair, standard tennis racquet, and balls—no extra gear needed.

Training focuses on upper‑body strength, core stability, and quick hand‑eye coordination. Simple drills like “serve‑and‑volley” or “groundstroke rally” work well in any backyard or community court. Consistent practice also builds the confidence to handle those double bounces without hesitation.

Finally, remember that wheelchair tennis is more than a sport—it’s a growing community. Fans love the athleticism, and players often share personal stories of perseverance on social media. Jumping in as a spectator or player helps spread awareness and encourages sponsors to invest more in African events.