Sugeno swaps fan status for life as a Paralympian

For Japan’s Koji Sugeno, Tokyo 2020 marks the achievement of a career ambition: becoming a Paralympian.

“I've been working towards the Paralympic Games in Tokyo for a long time, so I am simply very excited about it,” said the 40-year-old. “It was one of my main goals.

“I've never participated in the Paralympic Games. I've watched it on TV and cheered for the athletes. I've always been engaged with the Paralympics, but only as a fan, so I can't wait to see what it will be like to participate in as an athlete.”

It is now a reality. The quad wheelchair world No. 6 made his debut in doubles with compatriot Mitsuteru Moroishi on Day 1 at Ariake Tennis Park, and takes his singles bow against Korea, Rep’s Kim Myung Je on Centre Court on Saturday evening.

Having moved within one match win of a medal in doubles, Sugeno’s first Paralympics might yet surpass his rather modest pre-tournament expectations.

“I’ve never imagined myself on the podium, but sometimes I’ve imagined myself playing here,” he said. “Basically, I think all the players who are higher in the rankings than me are tough to play against, I think all the players in the top 10 are strong. I would struggle against any of those players.”

But the 40-year-old debutant need look no further than the Japanese team for inspiration in his quest to upset the odds, with Shingo Kunieda’s “impressive” breakthrough doubles gold medal with Satoshi Saida at Athens 2004 ranking among his most impactful Paralympic memories.

And as much pride as he feels for reaching the Paralympics, Sugeno is every bit as proud to do so representing the home nation.

“It is a different atmosphere from touring where I participate alone,” he said. “I always play with a special feeling.”