Esther Vergeer, celebrated as the most outstanding wheelchair tennis player of all time, has dedicated herself to fostering the next generation of tennis talent. With a Master in Sport Management from the Johan Cruyff Institute, Esther has crafted a program designed to guide the careers of young, promising athletes.
Esther’s remarkable journey began at the age of eight when a surgical mishap resulted in the loss of mobility in her legs. Her life story is one of resilience and excellence, culminating in an extraordinary tennis career: 284 titles, including 21 Grand Slam singles and 23 doubles victories, 7 Olympic gold medals, and an incredible 668 weeks as the world number one. Her decade-long unbeaten streak, with 470 consecutive wins, remains unparalleled.
At 34, Esther shifted from her illustrious playing career to pursue new endeavors. She founded a foundation to promote sports among children with disabilities, serves as an advisor to the Dutch Paralympic Tennis Federation, and directs the ATP ABN AMRO wheelchair tennis tournament in Rotterdam. In partnership with former Dutch tennis player Richard Krajicek, she has developed a platform to support emerging tennis stars through a comprehensive training program.
Building a Legacy Beyond the Court
As the director of the ATP ABN AMRO tournament, Esther utilizes her vast experience to benefit the next generation of players. Her duties include managing player accommodations, facilities, and marketing initiatives, as well as highlighting the social impact of sports. The tournament acts as a vital stepping stone for young talents, offering them exposure and development opportunities.
Evolution of the Tournament
Since its start as a demonstration event in 2008, the wheelchair tennis tournament has seen significant growth. Initially featuring 8 participants, it now hosts 12, with facilities and services matching those for able-bodied players. The tournament has played a role in changing public perception, attracting spectators who recognize and appreciate the skill of wheelchair tennis athletes.
Mastering Sport Management
Esther attributes her Master in Sport Management to enhancing her organizational and communication skills, essential for her role as tournament director. The program offered insights into commercial aspects, event communication, and risk management, preparing her to tackle challenges such as fluctuating ticket sales and media attention.
Nurturing Young Talent
Through the talent program, Esther and Richard Krajicek aim to bridge the gap between promising players and professional athletes. They provide personalized guidance, assisting players in overcoming setbacks and developing competition plans. The program stresses the importance of rest and strategic tournament participation to maintain physical and mental well-being.
The Importance of Experience
Participating in the ATP Rotterdam tournament offers young players invaluable experience alongside elite athletes. It helps them build resilience under pressure, a crucial skill for future success in prestigious international competitions.
Selection and Development
The talent program selects participants through trials, fostering trust with players and their families. As players advance, the program continually seeks new talents to support, ensuring a steady pipeline of future stars.
Personal Insights and Planning
Reflecting on her own career, Esther emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and rest, lessons she now shares with her protégés. She encourages players to consider their long-term goals and personal narratives, guiding them to become not just athletes but inspirational figures.