The United States Tennis Association has come under heavy criticism after it has emerged that their decision to scrap this year’s wheelchair event was made without consulting players.
Leading figures from the world of wheelchair tennis and the Paralympics have blasted the move with Australian star Dylan Alcott branding it as ‘disgusting discrimination.’ This year’s Grand Slam will take place with a series of changes, including no qualifying or mixed doubles events taking place. The event will also be held behind closed doors to minimise the COVID-19 risk to those taking part.
Alcott, who is a two-time US Open champion and three-time Paralympic gold medallist, took to Twitter to hit out at the decision. Blasting officials for failing to consult with him and other players about their plans. Wheelchair tennis had been a regular event at the US Open since 2005.
“Just got announced that the US Open will go ahead WITHOUT wheelchair tennis.. Players weren’t consulted,” wrote Alcott. “I thought I did enough to qualify – 2x champion, number 1 in the world. But unfortunately I missed the only thing that mattered, being able to walk. Disgusting discrimination.”
He added: “And please do not tell me I am a ‘greater risk’ because I am disabled. I am disabled yes but that does not make me SICK. I am fitter and healthier than nearly everybody reading this right now. There are no added risks.
“And for sure there are far more important things going on in the world, but that choice should’ve been up TO ME. It is blatant discrimination for able bodied people to decide on my behalf what I do with my LIFE AND CAREER just because I am disabled. Not good enough.”
Britain’s Andy Lapthorne is the current US Open men’s champion in quad singles and doubles. He has described the axing of his event as another example of ‘terrible leadership’ in the sport. Lapthorne reached world No.1 in singles for the first time earlier this year.
“This is yet again another example of terrible leadership in the sport of tennis. I don’t get the chance to defend my singles and doubles titles at the US Open because I’m in a wheelchair. Complete disgrace if this isn’t changed I don’t know what to say other than discrimination!” He said.
There is also outrage from members of the Paralympic organisation. Craig Spence, who is the Chief Brand and Communications Officer, has labelled the move as ‘truly pathetic.’
“This is a truly pathetic decision by the US Open. Underlines just how much more work is needed to end discrimination towards persons with disabilities. Discrimination of any kind whether it be disability, race, gender or sexuality has no place in today’s world,” he said.
Stacey Allaster is the newly appointed tournament director of the US Open. Briefly touching on the subject yesterday during the USTA’s press conference, she said that ‘most athletes’ understand the limits they have this year. She argues that having too many athletes on site could pose a potential health risk. Although critics point out that those who are attending the Grand Slam are allowed to bring up to three guests each.
“When we look at the overall of qualifying, mixed, juniors, wheelchair championship, we had to make the really difficult decision that that extra load of the number of bodies that is in the multiples was outside something we felt we could handle ultimately to mitigate the risk and the health and well-being for all.” Said Allaster.
The USTA has handed out $3.3 million to both the ATP and WTA to help fund ‘replacement activities.’ However, nothing has been issued to the International Tennis Federation, who governs wheelchair tennis.
