Top favourite against defending champion. The script for the final of the wheelchair tennis tournament powered by win2day at the Wiener Stadthalle could hardly have been written any better. The packed stands provided the perfect setting. Alfie Hewett emerged as the leading man: The 37-time Grand Slam champion and current world No. 2 took control from the very beginning. With powerful groundstrokes and plenty of variety, he dominated the match and gave his compatriot Reid, the world No. 5 and defending champion, little chance.
“It is my first time in Vienna and it has been an incredible experience. Playing on this iconic court in front of so many people is what you dream of as a wheelchair tennis player. Thank you to the organisers for giving us this stage. We want to showcase our sport in the best possible way. This tournament has a bright future and I am looking forward to coming back,” Hewett said after his triumph. Alongside his 37 Grand Slam titles – 11 in singles and 26 in doubles – and Paralympic gold medal, the 28-year-old can now also call himself a Vienna champion.
His long-time doubles partner Reid was quick to congratulate him. “Alfie was the better player today and had an answer for everything. You have to acknowledge that and congratulate him,” said the Scot. “Thank you to everyone who makes this possible. Nico has once again done a fantastic job of bringing us here. This tournament is outstanding and we players feel truly appreciated. Hopefully, we can continue developing it together. Thank you to everyone who came today – it was a pleasure to play in front of you.”
Playing Ambassador Nico Langmann joined Tournament Director Herwig Straka and Tournament Ambassador Thomas Muster for the trophy ceremony. “This final was the best possible advertisement for wheelchair tennis. The level was incredible and the crowd followed the action with tremendous enthusiasm. The sporting performance took centre stage – and that is exactly what it should be about,” said Langmann. He added: “We have taken the wheelchair tennis tournament to another level. This week was simply fantastic!”
