Author: Lima 2019 press release Lima, 27 August 2019

THE BEST WHEELCHAIR TENNIS PLAYER SEEKS TO QUALIFY FOR TOKYO 2020

The powerful story of Argentinian Gustavo Fernández, who aims to claim his fourth consecutive gold at the Parapan American Games and has already qualified for individual semifinals.

Gustavo

Gustavo Fernández’s dreams were always related to tennis, even from a very young age in his hometown Río Tercero (Córdoba). At age 6, when he barely understood that a spinal stroke caused him to be paralyzed from the waist down, he did not hesitate to challenge able-bodied players while in his wheelchair. He was not doing well, but adversity forged his competitive character. 

Today, at age 25, he is considered the best wheelchair tennis player in the world. He arrived at Lima 2019 to claim his fourth consecutive gold and qualify for Tokyo 2020. In fact, “Gusti” is having his best season in the world circuit after consecutively winning the Grand Slam tournaments Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon. 

“This has been an unforgettable year. I’m enjoying the moment but also pushing myself to keep winning more tournaments. Living my passion for tennis makes me very happy. I was lucky I found people who is by my side in this challenging circuit and keep me determined,” said “Gusti” Fernández in an interview for Lima 2019. 

This morning, the current Parapan American champion made it to the individual semifinals, after defeating Brazilian Gustavo Carneiro 6-0 at the Club Lawn Tennis de la Exposición. This Wednesday, he will compete to qualify for the finals. 

“Winning gold at the Paralympic Games has always been one of my biggest dreams, and Lima 2019 is a step closer to achieve it. I will keep doing my best to take home more medals. Being recognized as just another tennis player is something that already makes me proud, and that's invaluable,” said Fernández. 

BUY YOUR TICKETS 

To see this outstanding wheelchair tennis player in action, get your tickets with prices starting at PEN 10. There will be a 50% discount for children under 18, senior citizens and people with an impairment. Tickets are available only in the ticket booths located off of the main entrance at Lawn Tennis (Av. 28 de julio) and in the 11 Teleticket points of sale. 

Tickets can be also purchased online through lima2019.pe/tickets, where you will also find the detailed competition schedules. In the case of e-tickets, printing will no longer be necessary since customers can show their e-ticket from their mobile phones at the entrance of the sports venue. 

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