Rising Star Matt Knoesen Triumphs at French Open

From Kart Racing to Court Success

Matt Knoesen, a 13‑year‑old from Biddenden, captured the boys’ wheelchair singles and doubles titles at the French Open, crediting his self‑belief for the breakthrough. Born with a spinal‑cord injury that left him paralysed below the knee, he raced go‑karts before an injury forced a switch to tennis. “When I realised my dream of go‑kart racing was over it was very tricky to deal with,” he said, noting that tennis helped him move forward. His mindset now focuses on belief in his own ability and surrounding himself with the right people.

Historic Triple Crown at LTA Championships

In 2025 Matt Knoesen became the first player in history to win the junior singles, men’s open singles and men’s open doubles at the LTA National Wheelchair Tennis Championships—all in a single year. That same season he also became the youngest athlete ever to represent Team GB, helping the squad secure gold at the ITF World Team Cup in Turkey. He beat Alexander Lantermann in the boys’ wheelchair singles final at Roland Garros before partnering with the Belgian for the doubles title. The teen described winning a Grand Slam on the grounds of his idol Rafa Nadal as “surreal.”

Family Pride and Long‑Term Ambitions

His father Gavin Knoesen spoke of being “so proud” of his son’s determination, saying, “He is already more of a man than I will ever be.” Gavin added that Matt aims to build a career that allows him to live a life doing what he loves, with a deep‑down goal of competing at the 2032 Paralympics. The teenager’s mother and coaches have also noticed his resilience, noting that despite injuries he never doubts his capabilities. This family backdrop underscores Matt’s drive to become a lasting figure in wheelchair tennis.

Coaching and Training Regime

Matt trains regularly at the Horsmonden Lawn Tennis Club, where coach Zane Cheeseman has been courtside throughout his rise. “Just three years of playing tennis and then to go to a Grand Slam and achieve the success he has is unbelievable,” Cheeseman remarked, highlighting how wheelchair tennis adds another layer of challenge. “Nothing holds him back, he is so driven and when he wants to do something he will do it.” The coach’s insights show that Matt’s progress is as much mental as it is physical.

Eye on the Paralympics

Now focusing on the season’s final Grand Slam event, Matt is preparing for the US Open Wheelchair Championships. He emphasized the accessibility of the sport, noting, “All you need is a chair and a racket to give tennis a go with your family and see if you like it.” The teenager’s progression from a day wheelchair to a multi‑sport chair illustrates his adaptability. Looking ahead, his goal is not just personal glory but to pave the way for future athletes in the wheelchair tennis community. His story is already seen as a blueprint for young competitors aspiring to the Paralympics.