Being a Paralympian is a magical feeling, says Van Koot

Netherlands’ Aniek van Koot has competed at every big wheelchair tennis event around the world, but there is a special place reserved for the Paralympic Games.

“I think it’s the highlight of your tennis career,” explained the Dutchwoman, who has one gold and three silvers from her two previous Paralympic experiences. “Obviously, the Grand Slams are really important, but I think it’s the Paralympics that top it off.”

The 30-year-old is also well aware how lucky she is to do what she does for a living, but that doesn’t mean she takes anything for granted and, for her, the Paralympics have always provided some incredible memories.

“I’ve been to the Queen for the first time in 2012 and in 2016, we went to the King after the Paralympic Games,” said van Koot. “That’s quite special!”

And the sense of achievement that competing as a Paralympian has had on her is palpable.

“The fact that you have this job, that you are allowed to play tennis in some of the most wonderful places, to be able to be part of Grand Slams and then to become a Paralympian as well, and to represent your country, it’s just magical,” she explained. “It adds more magic to what you are already doing.”

Van Koot knows who her rivals will be for the gold medal – countrywoman Diede de Groot and home favourite Yui Kamiji – but she also thinks there might be some surprises along the way.

For her, it might be a case of third time lucky, having finished runner-up in singles at the last two Paralympic Games. Regardless of results, given the global pandemic, Van Koot is just happy to have one more chance to represent her country.

“It’ll be the third time for me competing at the Paralympic Games,” she said. “It’s going to be a special edition, in the midst of the pandemic, but it’s always an honour to play for your country – especially at the Paralympic Games.”