Vision-impaired tennis ace Naqi Rizvi advocates for sport recognition and Paralympic integration.
A TENACIOUS TENNIS CHAMPION AIMS TO ELEVATE BLIND TENNIS TO THE PARALYMPICS
LONDON - Naqi Rizvi revels in the unparalleled freedom he experiences on the court. The 34-year-old, who has been blind since the age of seven due to congenital glaucoma, delights in the sport's liberating atmosphere and the sense of accomplishment that comes with winning titles.
Rizvi, a London resident and the world's No. 1-ranked blind tennis player, is relentlessly pursuing his dream of making the sport a part of the Paralympics. "It would be a dream come true to be the first Paralympic champion if I can," he said.
Since taking up tennis a decade ago, Rizvi has made a meteoric rise in the sport. In addition to his prowess on the court, he also enjoys a successful career in finance and has completed two marathons. Despite the thrill of running with a guide, tennis offers a unique level of independence.
"Tennis offers absolute freedom because I am aware of the boundaries and don't need others to guide my movements," he explained during a practice session at the National Tennis Center in southwest London.
The rules of blind tennis are remarkably similar to those of mainstream tennis, with smaller court dimensions, a slightly lower net, and tactile lines marked on the court. Players like Rizvi are allowed up to three bounces, depending on the level of visual impairment, and the ball contains a bell to aid tracking. The sport requires a high degree of technical skill, strategic anticipation, and quick thinking—traits that Rizvi embraces.
Rizvi discovered the sport through Metro Blind Sport in London over a decade ago and has since become a passionate advocate for its inclusion in mainstream tennis events, such as the ATP Tour and Grand Slam events. He believes that greater visibility is essential for the sport to gain the recognition and financial support it needs to flourish.
"Mainstream events should give parity to all forms of disability tennis, not just the popular ones like wheelchair tennis," Rizvi urged. He cited the growth of blind tennis as evidence of its potential for success on a global scale. Last year's world championships in Italy saw the participation of 117 players from 20 countries, according to the International Blind Tennis Association.
In order to achieve this, Rizvi believes that the sport needs to be "widely and regularly practiced" in at least 32 countries and three continents—a requirement set by the International Paralympic Committee. To meet this criterion, the sport needs to continue expanding its reach while also establishing a strong global governing body.
Raising awareness and gaining visibility through media coverage and public awareness campaigns are crucial for attracting new participants and demonstrating the sport's viability. Moreover, a comprehensive proposal that outlines the sport's global reach, competitive level, and potential for Paralympic inclusion would help in convincing the IPC to include blind tennis in future games.
Ken Maguire, The Associated Press
Naqi Rizvi, aspiring to elevate blind tennis to the Paralympics, believes that greater visibility and inclusion in mainstream tennis events, such as the ATP Tour and Grand Slam events, are essential for the sport's recognition and financial support. To achieve this, he advocates for widespread and regular practice of blind tennis across at least 32 countries and three continents, which aligns with the International Paralympic Committee's requirements.
