Inspired by the incredible performance of Shingo Kunieda, Tokito Oda, a teenage wheelchair tennis player from Japan, decided to pursue the sport himself. Now, his ambition is to inspire and play for the younger generation.
Paris is a city that resonates deeply with Tokito Oda. Named after the legendary Arc de Triomphe, a symbol of the city’s grandeur, he has also celebrated significant victories there, clinching two of his four Grand Slam titles in wheelchair tennis at the prestigious French Open.
The 18-year-old feels that destiny has brought him to this moment, as he prepares to make his Paralympic debut in Paris.
“This location holds immense significance for me, and I can’t be certain that another Paralympics will take place in Paris during my lifetime. I approach this experience with the belief that it’s a unique chance for me to compete at the Games in Paris.”
Before the wheelchair tennis singles tournament, Oda shared a captivating photo on Instagram where he was seen making a wish in front of the iconic Arc de Triomphe, accompanied by the word “Dreamer.” On September 1, he showcased his talent by defeating Great Britain’s Ben Bartram in straight sets, propelling himself into the third round of the men’s singles tournament.
I believe these Games will mark a significant shift in my life. They present a unique chance for me to transform my circumstances completely. While I may not have all the answers yet, I am confident that this experience will lead to profound change.
Unthinkable? That’s just a minor hurdle
The truth is, the Paralympic Games have profoundly transformed his life.
At the age of nine, he received a diagnosis of bone cancer, leading him to endure both treatment and surgery. During his time in the hospital, he found inspiration while watching a video of wheelchair tennis champion Shingo Kunieda compete in the men’s singles final at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.
As a child, I was passionate about soccer, but my life took a turn when I began using a wheelchair at the age of six. This transition was significant for me, yet it opened my eyes to the world of Para sports, igniting a dream within me. This dream has played a crucial role in shaping my life and aspirations.
During my time in the hospital, I found myself captivated by various sports, including wheelchair tennis and basketball. I chose to focus on wheelchair tennis, inspired by Shingo Kunieda, who hails from my home country. After watching a video of his incredible skills on the court, I was motivated to take up wheelchair tennis myself.
Since embracing the sport, this teenager has achieved remarkable milestones that surpass those of his contemporaries. At just 14 years old, Oda made history by becoming the youngest boy to reach the No. 1 spot in the junior wheelchair tennis rankings worldwide.
After three years, he achieved his first Grand Slam victory at Roland Garros. This remarkable feat made him the youngest player to reach the top of the wheelchair tennis singles rankings. With an additional three Grand Slam titles under his belt, he has become a celebrated figure in Japan.
Oda expressed, “Playing wheelchair tennis with my chair and racquet brings me immense joy. In traditional tennis, we typically play while standing with just our racquets. Competing in a chair presents its own challenges, yet it’s incredibly enjoyable. Ultimately, that’s what matters most to me.”
The fortunate spot
Oda, often referred to by the media as the successor to Kunieda, identifies his greatest challenge in wheelchair tennis as “these Paralympics.”
He has always been his own greatest advocate, fully aware that Paris holds a special charm for him. This year at the French Open, he showcased his dominance by winning the tournament without losing a single set on the legendary red clay courts.
I possess a collection of fortunate items right here. My name is Tokito, and the kanji that represents me is inspired by the Arc de Triomphe. This connection to Paris fills me with inspiration. This moment is truly significant for me.
I believe my greatest ally is myself, as I have made all my own decisions. While my parents offer their support, the choices I’ve made—whether to pursue this sport or determine my path—have been entirely mine. This independence is crucial for me to truly live my life on my own terms.
Truly inspiring 🌟
Japan’s Tokito Oda tells us why he got into Wheelchair tennis 🎾🇯🇵#Paralympics #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/m2y0bokcen
— Paralympic Games (@Paralympics) September 3, 2024
Designed for the children
Oda, inspired by Kunieda as his role model in Para sports, aspires for more children to discover the sport and participate in tournaments. To make this vision a reality, he took the initiative to organize a junior wheelchair tennis event at an international tournament in his hometown.
For the young athletes who have begun their journey in wheelchair tennis, I’m eager to share the incredible experiences I’ve had on the international scene. And for those who are yet to take that first step, I hope to inspire a spark of interest that leads them to this amazing sport.
Oda expressed, “The Paralympic Games represent a tremendous opportunity for me to transform my own life and inspire others who are watching my matches. I hope that my journey will encourage them to take up tennis and wheelchair tennis as well.”
I aspire to showcase my tennis skills to a wide audience.