In a stunning turn of events, the US Open found itself without some of its brightest stars this year as wheelchair tennis took center stage at the Paralympics in Paris. Israeli athletes stole the show, dominating the competition and leaving their mark on the international stage.
The Paralympics vs. US Open scheduling conflict is a perennial dilemma for top players, and this year, the Paralympics emerged victorious in the tug of war for talent. While the Billie Jean King Tennis Center in Queens still hosts the junior wheelchair tournament, the world’s top wheelchair tennis players have flocked to Paris to compete for gold.
Israel has made its presence felt in Paris, with four top-tier athletes – Adam Berdichevsky, Guy Sasson, Sergei Lysov, and Maayan Zikri – showcasing their skills on the court. Berdichevsky, in particular, has captured hearts with his inspiring journey. Following a tragic boating accident, the 40-year-old turned to tennis and has been on a redemption arc since Tokyo 2020. His victory over Italy’s Luca Arca marked a strong start to his Paralympic campaign.
Not only is Berdichevsky excelling in competition, but he also had the honor of leading the Israeli team as the flag bearer. His next challenge comes in the form of Chile’s Alexander Cataldo, a matchup that promises to be thrilling. Meanwhile, Sergei Lysov, a rising star who made aliyah from Russia to Israel in 2019, also made his Paralympic debut. Despite a loss to the tournament’s top seed, Alfie Hewett, Lysov’s performance has showcased his immense talent and potential.
As the Paralympics continue to unfold in Paris, Israeli athletes are making their mark and proving that they are a force to be reckoned with on the international stage. The US Open may have lost some star power, but the real winners are the fans who get to witness the incredible feats of these remarkable athletes.
