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World's Best Wheelchair Tennis Players Compete in Rome
The ITF Georgia Open Wheelchair Championship draws top talent to North Georgia
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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The ITF Georgia Open Wheelchair Championship, one of the nation's premier wheelchair tennis tournaments, kicked off this week at the Rome Tennis Center in Rome, Georgia. The event has drawn some of the world's top wheelchair tennis players, who compete at a fully professional level, training and traveling just as much as able-bodied players on the regular tennis tour.
Why it matters
Wheelchair tennis has grown significantly in popularity and professionalism in recent years, with players operating at an elite, competitive level. Events like the Georgia Open provide a platform to showcase the skill and dedication of these athletes, challenging perceptions about disability and sports.
The details
The Georgia Open is part of a three-week series of wheelchair tennis tournaments that also runs through Baton Rouge and Miami. Players like third-ranked Martin de la Puente from Spain and three-time reigning doubles champion and two-time Paralympian Heath Davidson compete at the highest level, training and traveling extensively. Behind the scenes, equipment manager Krige Schabort ensures the players' specialized wheelchairs are properly maintained, with tires inflated to a high 110 PSI for competition.
- The ITF Georgia Open Wheelchair Championship began on Monday, March 9, 2026.
- The Georgia Open is part of a three-week tournament series that also runs through Baton Rouge and Miami.
The players
Martin de la Puente
A Spanish wheelchair tennis player who is currently ranked third in the world.
Heath Davidson
A three-time reigning doubles champion and two-time Paralympian who is targeting a third Paralympic appearance before retiring.
Krige Schabort
The equipment manager who keeps the players' specialized wheelchairs in competition shape, ensuring the tires are inflated to a high 110 PSI.
What they’re saying
“You know, when we play against each other, we don't see the wheelchair.”
— Martin de la Puente
“If I'm being honest, I'm not very good at anything else.”
— Heath Davidson, three-time reigning doubles champion and two-time Paralympian
“We train just as much, we travel just as much, we have our own tour just like they do.”
— Heath Davidson, three-time reigning doubles champion and two-time Paralympian
What’s next
The Georgia Open is part of a three-week tournament series that will also run through Baton Rouge and Miami in the coming weeks.
The takeaway
Wheelchair tennis has evolved into a highly competitive and professional sport, with elite athletes training and competing at the highest levels. Events like the Georgia Open showcase the skill and dedication of these athletes, challenging perceptions about disability and sports.
