Yannick Noah, the legendary 1983 champion of the French Open, has been appointed as the new head of para tennis in France, effective next year.
The French Tennis Federation announced this exciting development, highlighting that Noah’s responsibilities will encompass the coordination of activities related to wheelchair tennis, as well as tennis for individuals who are visually impaired and those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Noah’s involvement with para tennis began this past summer when he took on the role of leader for the French men’s wheelchair tennis team at the Paris Paralympic Games, an experience that he found to be enriching.
According to the French tennis federation, Noah will play a vital role in further structuring the para tennis department.
His focus will be on directing training and high-level strategies while also fostering the growth of all para tennis activities throughout France.
As one of France’s most recognized sports figures, Noah holds the distinction of being the last male player from the country to secure a Grand Slam singles title and achieved his career-high ranking of No. 3 in the ATP standings back in 1986.
In addition to his playing accolades, Noah has also served as the captain of the French Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup teams, successfully leading both to championship victories.
He was honored with induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2005, cementing his legacy in the sport.
Expressing his enthusiasm for this new role, Noah stated that he is “delighted” to take on this “new mission,” emphasizing its significance to him personally.
He reflected on the profound human experience he gained while working with the athletes on the French wheelchair tennis team during the recent Paralympic Games in Paris and expressed a desire to continue this inspiring journey.