Japan’s teenage wheelchair tennis prodigy, Tokito Oda, was inspired to take up the sport after watching Shingo Kunieda. Today, he aims to inspire the next generation of young players.
Tokito Oda: A Heartfelt Journey from Inspiration to Paralympic Stardom
For Tokito Oda, Paris isn’t just a city; it’s a symbol of dreams and destiny. The 18-year-old Japanese wheelchair tennis sensation, named after the iconic Arc de Triomphe, is experiencing a momentous journey as he makes his Paralympic debut in the very city that has played a pivotal role in his life. Oda, who has won two of his four wheelchair tennis Grand Slam titles at the French Open, believes it’s fate that he’s competing in Paris. His journey from a young cancer patient to a rising star in wheelchair tennis is nothing short of extraordinary.
Paris: A City of Dreams and Triumph
Paris holds a special place in Tokito Oda’s heart for several reasons. Not only was he named after the Arc de Triomphe, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, but he has also achieved significant milestones at the French Open. The city’s iconic red clay courts have been the backdrop for some of his greatest victories. In an Instagram post ahead of the Paralympic wheelchair tennis singles tournament, Oda shared a poignant image of himself making a wish in front of the Arc de Triomphe, accompanied by the word “Dreamer.” His aspiration to return to Roland Garros and repeat his past successes fuels his determination as he advances through the tournament.
On September 1, Oda advanced to the third round of the men’s singles tournament by defeating Great Britain’s Ben Bartram in straight sets. Reflecting on his connection to Roland Garros, he expressed the significance of returning to the venue where he hasn’t lost a match in two years. “To come back to Roland Garros is very special for me,” he said. “I want to do it again.” For Oda, the Paralympic Games in Paris are not only an opportunity to showcase his talent but also a potential turning point in his life. “I think these Games will be a turning point in my life,” he remarked. “The Games will be an opportunity for me to drastically change my life. I don’t know how, but I’m sure.”
Overcoming Adversity and Finding Inspiration
Tokito Oda’s journey to the Paralympic stage is a testament to resilience and inspiration. Diagnosed with bone cancer at the age of nine, Oda underwent rigorous treatment and surgery. During his time in the hospital, he discovered wheelchair tennis through a video of legendary player Shingo Kunieda competing in the men’s singles final at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Oda, who had previously played soccer and started using a wheelchair at six, was profoundly inspired by Kunieda’s performance. “I used to play soccer when I was young and I started using a wheelchair when I was six,” Oda recalled. “I saw Para sport and then I got a dream. That was really important for me, for my life.”
Inspired by Kunieda, Oda chose wheelchair tennis over other sports. “I watched a video of him play and I decided to play wheelchair tennis,” he said. Since then, Oda has achieved remarkable milestones. At just 14 years old, he became the youngest-ever boys’ world No. 1 in the junior wheelchair tennis rankings. By the age of 17, he had won his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros and became the youngest athlete to hold the world No. 1 ranking in wheelchair tennis singles. With three additional Grand Slam titles under his belt, Oda has become a prominent figure in Japanese sports.
Embracing the Challenge of the Paralympics
Despite his achievements, Tokito Oda acknowledges that the Paralympic Games represent his greatest challenge yet. Dubbed by the media as Kunieda’s successor, Oda embraces this role with a sense of responsibility and determination. His confidence is rooted in the support he has received from himself and his family. “I think my biggest supporter is myself because I’ve decided everything by myself,” Oda explained. “Also my parents are supportive, but I chose almost everything— to play in this sport and where to go. Everything I chose by myself, and I think that is very important to live my own life.”
Oda’s success at this year’s French Open, where he won every match without dropping a set on the iconic red clay courts, further cements his status as a rising star in wheelchair tennis. The personal significance of his achievements in Paris is evident in his reflections on his career and the impact of the Paralympics.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Tokito Oda is committed to giving back to the sport that has given him so much. He hopes to inspire young athletes and open doors for future generations. In his hometown, Oda helped organize a junior wheelchair tennis draw at an international tournament to provide opportunities for young players. “To kids who have started playing wheelchair tennis, I want to share with them what I’ve experienced on the international stage,” he said. “And to those who haven’t started, I want to open a door for them to become interested.”
Oda’s dedication to promoting wheelchair tennis extends beyond his own success. He views the Paralympic Games as a chance to change lives, both his own and those of others who watch him compete. “For me, the Paralympic Games are one of my biggest chances to change my life and to change the lives of other people who are watching my match,” he said. “Hopefully they will start playing tennis and wheelchair tennis also.”
Conclusion: A Legacy of Inspiration
Tokito Oda’s journey from a young cancer patient to a Paralympic athlete is a story of inspiration and triumph. His achievements on the court, coupled with his commitment to giving back to the sport, make him a role model for aspiring athletes. As he competes in Paris, a city that holds deep personal significance, Oda continues to chase his dreams while inspiring others to do the same. His story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of sport.
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