At the 2025 ABN AMRO Open in Rotterdam, blind tennis was showcased as an adaptive sport, highlighting its inclusivity and the skill of visually impaired athletes.
A demonstration was organized in collaboration with BSTN, the Blind Tennis Foundation of the Netherlands. It featured top IBTA ranked players using adaptive equipment, audible foam balls to provide auditory cues and a smaller court to accommodate the sport’s unique dynamics. Players relied on their hearing and spatial awareness to track the ball and execute precise shots, showcasing remarkable agility and focus. Several children with blindness and low vision have tried blind tennis for the first time.
The event drew significant media attention, with press coverage emphasizing the sport’s ability to break barriers and inspire. Major outlets highlighted the athletes’ determination and the growing popularity of blind tennis globally. The demonstration at the ABN AMRO Open was widely praised as a milestone in making tennis more accessible and inclusive in the Netherlands.
For more information on how to get involved in the Netherlands, please contact BSTN President, Fanny van den Heuvel, at fannyvdheuvel@gmail.com.