In a momentous achievement at the Paris Paralympics 2024, British wheelchair tennis stars Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid finally secured the coveted Paralympic gold medal on the renowned Philippe-Chatrier court at Roland Garros. This victory not only marked a significant milestone in their careers but also etched their names in history as the first men’s wheelchair doubles team to achieve the career ‘Golden Slam’. They delivered a stellar performance against the Japanese duo, Takuya Miki and Tokito Oda, with a decisive 6-2, 6-1 victory.
Hewett and Reid, who have already accumulated an impressive tally of 21 Grand Slam titles, had long aspired to add the Paralympic gold to their collection, completing their ‘Golden Slam’—a feat that includes winning all four Grand Slam tournaments and the Paralympic gold medal. This triumph was especially poignant for Hewett, who had previously experienced the sting of defeat in the finals at both Rio and Tokyo. Overwhelmed with emotion, the pair shared a heartfelt embrace on the iconic red clay, with Hewett describing the moment as “the stuff of dreams.”
For Alfie Hewett, this victory transcended the mere acquisition of a gold medal; it was a personal triumph over adversity. Diagnosed with Perthes disease, which affects hip movement, Hewett faced the possibility of being ineligible to compete. However, after undergoing a series of evaluations following the Tokyo Paralympics, he was cleared to continue his athletic career, a moment he celebrated with tears of joy and champagne.
Gordon Reid, who had previously claimed the 2016 Paralympic singles gold by defeating Hewett, expressed the profound significance of this victory after enduring past disappointments. “It feels amazing,” Reid remarked, reflecting on a journey marked by “heartbreak” and “pain.” The 32-year-old Scotsman, who became paralyzed from the waist down due to transverse myelitis at the age of 12, emphasized the importance of savoring this hard-earned victory.
“Sometimes you have to feel that pain to really enjoy the highs when they come,” Reid stated, underscoring the emotional depth of their achievement. The victory was a moment to cherish, both on the court and during the celebratory ceremony. For Hewett, who was set to face Oda again in the singles competition, the memories of past Paralympic defeats lingered. “There’s always that little doubt,” he admitted, but this time, they managed to overcome it.
As for their celebrations, Hewett hinted that the night would be dedicated to enjoying their well-deserved success. “Tonight’s all about us,” he declared, leaving no doubt that they intended to fully relish their historic accomplishment.