Wheelchair tennis championship: Where sports meets empowerment
First Serve, an NGO founded by Reyaan Punj, recently organised the second edition of the All India Tennis Association (AITA) Wheelchair Tennis Championship. The championship took place at the DLTA Stadium in the Capital last month and was a significant step towards promoting the sport in the country.
Under Punj’s dynamic leadership, First Serve has been at the forefront of advocating for accessible sports for people with disabilities. The organisation’s mission to break down barriers and create opportunities for athletes has resonated across the country, with the AITA Wheelchair Tennis Championship emerging as a premier event in the Indian tennis landscape.
The championship featured a generous prize of ₹3.5 lakh, attracting top-ranked wheelchair tennis players from across India including Karthik K and Shilpa KP, who showcased their exceptional skills and determination as they competed for national glory. The championship was inaugurated by Rajya Sabha member Dr Sudhanshu Trivedi.
“I’m honoured to collaborate with the AITA Wheelchair Tennis Championship, advancing accessibility and empowerment in sports. Through tennis, we aim to inspire a new generation of leaders who will drive positive change in their communities,” Punj said at the event.
The initiative has a profound commitment to social impact and youth empowerment. By harnessing the universal appeal of tennis, AITA Wheelchair Tennis Championship and First Serve NGO aspires to inspire athletes who can pave the way for future generations.