Guy Sasson Prepares for Wimbledon Spotlight in Wheelchair Tennis

Israeli wheelchair tennis sensation Guy Sasson is set to make his mark at Wimbledon this week, driven by resilience, determination, and a deep connection to his homeland and community. The 45-year-old, currently ranked No. 3 in the world in the quad division, is one of the most formidable competitors in the sport and he’s only just getting started.

Competing on grass presents unique challenges. “The ball doesn’t bounce here, and it’s very difficult to push [the chair],” Sasson explained. “Out of the three surfaces we play on, grass is the most difficult. But that’s what makes me want to win here even more.”

Sasson knows a thing or two about overcoming obstacles. Paralyzed in a snowboarding accident a decade ago, he transformed adversity into purpose. After rising through the Open division to reach the world’s Top 30, he switched to the quad category in 2023. Since then, he has won back-to-back titles at Roland Garros, cementing his place among the elite.

Now based in Houston, Texas, where he lives with his wife and four children, Sasson trains at River Oaks and works with renowned Belgian coach Damien Martinquet. His discipline is relentless. “When my body isn’t feeling great, and I don’t want to go to the gym, I remind myself that those [younger] guys are definitely at the gym,” he said with a smile.

His main rivals Niels Vink and Sam Schroder, both from the Netherlands are two decades younger. But Sasson has adapted, thriving in the more tactical, cerebral style of quad tennis. “It’s about watching your opponent and finding their weakness. It’s a more thoughtful game.”

Teammates and competitors alike speak highly of Sasson. Great Britain’s Gregory Slade described him as a player who “puts pressure back on you,” while British veteran Andy Lapthorne praised him as “a great competitor, very strong and moves well.”

Despite the intensity of international competition, Sasson remains grounded in his Israeli identity. He hopes to return to Israel permanently with his family someday and is already mentoring up-and-coming talents like junior standout Sergei Lysov. “He’s way too good for me to play,” Sasson joked. “So I’ve never lost to him.”

After Wimbledon, Sasson will head to New York for the US Open, where he’s expecting strong support from both American fans and the Jewish community. “The support from Israel, and from people in Houston, has been so wonderful and appreciated,” he said.

From surviving a life-altering injury to becoming a global tennis force, Guy Sasson embodies the spirit of perseverance and pride that defines the Israeli story. As he prepares to compete at Wimbledon, he carries with him not just the hopes of a nation, but a legacy of strength, faith, and triumph.

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