Esther Vergeer, known as the best wheelchair tennis player ever, has smoothly moved from her great wins on the court to a goal to help grow new tennis stars. Even though she lost the use of her legs at eight from a surgery gone wrong, Esther’s strong will and top skill pushed her to an amazing work life. She won 284 titles, took 21 Grand Slam singles and 23 doubles wins, and held 7
At 34, Esther has changed her path from playing to helping the next young tennis stars to grow. She runs a group that helps kids with disabilities play sports, gives advice to the Dutch Paralympic Tennis Team, and leads the ATP ABN AMRO wheelchair tennis event in Rotterdam. This event, which she co-leads with ex-Dutch tennis pro Richard Krajicek, acts as a base for her program to manage talent. This program aims to lead young players from pro.
Transitioning from Player to Director
Esther’s work as a boss at the ABN AMRO game started with a show event in 2008, and it grew into a big game by 2009. She looks after player needs, sets up show games, and takes care of ads. The game shows how good tennis is, and also talks about how sport helps the world. It gives young players a chance to grow and get better.
Evolution of the Tournament
Since it began, the wheelchair part of the game has grown from 8 to 12 players, mixing well with the events for those who are not disabled. They share spaces and places to stay, which helps include everyone and change how people see things. The game is now looked up to, pulling in fans who like the special trials and skills of wheelchair tennis.
The Role of Education in Management
Esther says her Master in Sport Management from the Johan Cruyff Institute made her better at knowing how big sports events work. In the program, she learned how to deal with risks, like when a top player leaves early and how it hits ticket sales and media buzz. This helps make sure the event does well, not just the games.
Supporting Young Talents
The skill plan, made with Richard Krajicek, tackles the hard move from arm play to pro tennis. Esther and Richard use their wide know-how to help young ones. They guide them through rough spots and help plan their paths well. This covers making game plans just for them and giving tips on rest and work times to boost how well they do.
Impact of the ATP Rotterdam Tournament
Taking part in a big event like the ATP Rotterdam gives young players great chances to learn. It puts them in tough spots, which helps them get better at their game and deal with stress. Esther thinks that these times are key for getting players ready for big matches in Grand Slams and other world events.
Selection and Mentorship
The skill program picks people by tests, making trust with the players, their families, and their coaches. As players get better, new skills join the program, making sure there is ongoing help and growth. Esther talks about how key it is to plan, rest, and share your own story to shape a good path.
Esther Vergeer’s hard work to help young stars shows her love for tennis’s future. Her wisdom and past lessons give great help to new players, aiding them in dealing with the tough parts of pro sports and keeping their life in check too.