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Guy Sasson made a remarkable impact at the 2024 Australian Open wheelchair singles competition. This tournament marked his first grand slam appearance since the tragic events of October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel. The enthusiastic support he received was truly unforgettable.
Overwhelming Support for Guy Sasson
Competing on the KIA Arena, Sasson was greeted by a crowd waving Israeli flags. Many attendees did not have prior knowledge of tennis, but they rallied around an Israeli athlete, showcasing solidarity regardless of his circumstances as a wheelchair competitor.
“It doesn’t matter, wheelchair or not. They came, and they were so supportive,” Sasson expressed, reflecting on the experience.
A Message of Resilience
In early January, following the Bondi terror attack that claimed the lives of many, Sasson posted a motivating message on Instagram. “After what happened in Sydney, I’m even more motivated to come and perform and represent our flag and our people,” he stated in the video.
Connecting with Community
Following his straight-sets victory over Donald Ramphadi during the tournament, Sasson emphasized the importance of connecting with his community. “It’s really important for me to be here and give them the opportunity to come with the Israeli flag,” he said. “We want to stand out and say, ‘Yeah, we’re Jewish, and we’re not ashamed of it.’”
Overcoming Challenges
Sasson, who became paralyzed from the knees down due to a snowboarding accident in 2015, has found strength through tennis. He aims to inspire others and witness the growth of the sport.
- Motivation: The events in his homeland fuel Sasson’s drive to succeed.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging visibility and pride among Jewish athletes.
- Future Vision: He believes increased participation will enhance the sport’s trajectory.
“We know from year to year that more and more people are coming to watch us,” Sasson noted. He is optimistic about the sport’s future, hoping that the next generation of athletes will exceed current achievements.
