Oda Kaito Completes Historic Wheelchair Tennis Grand Slam, Cementing His Place in Sports History

NEW YORK, September 8, 2025 – In a stunning display of athleticism and determination, 19-year-old Oda Kaito has captured the National Tennis Championship title in the wheelchair division, completing the coveted “lifelong Grand Slam.” This remarkable achievement – winning all four major tennis tournaments (Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, US Open) and the Paralympics – mirrors the feat accomplished by his idol, Kunieda Shingo, in 2022, signaling a new era in wheelchair tennis. This is breaking news that’s already reverberating throughout the sports world, and we’re bringing you the full story, optimized for instant Google indexing.

A Fierce Battle and a Historic Victory

Oda Kaito secured his victory after a grueling full-set match against Argentina’s Gustavo Fernandez. The win wasn’t just about claiming another title; it was about etching his name into the annals of tennis history. The final score remains undisclosed at this time, but reports indicate a back-and-forth contest that tested both players’ physical and mental fortitude. The atmosphere at the National Tennis Championship was electric, with fans captivated by the intensity of the match.

From Hospital Bed to Grand Slam Champion: Oda Kaito’s Inspiring Journey

Oda’s story is one of incredible resilience. Diagnosed with osteosarcoma at the age of nine, he began using a wheelchair and found inspiration in the triumphs of Kunieda Shingo. Watching Kunieda compete on television during his hospitalization ignited a passion that would propel him to the pinnacle of the sport. He turned professional at 15 years and 11 months, and quickly made waves. His Grand Slam debut came at the 2022 French Open, where he reached the semi-finals, losing to none other than Kunieda himself.

But Oda didn’t just learn from the best; he surpassed expectations. In 2013, at the astonishingly young age of 17 years and 33 days, he became the youngest-ever winner of the French World Championships in men’s singles. He’s since dominated the circuit, adding Wimbledon (2013, 2015) and the Australian Open (2014) to his impressive resume, accumulating a total of seven Grand Slam titles before today’s momentous victory. He also secured a doubles title at the US Open with Fernandez, the very opponent he defeated in the singles final – a testament to his sportsmanship and all-around skill.

Oda Kaito’s Grand Slam Record

The Legacy of Kunieda Shingo and the Future of Wheelchair Tennis

Oda Kaito’s success is inextricably linked to the trailblazing career of Kunieda Shingo. Kunieda’s dominance paved the way for a new generation of wheelchair tennis players, and Oda openly credits him as his primary inspiration. This passing of the torch is a powerful moment for the sport, demonstrating its continued growth and accessibility. The impact of both athletes extends beyond the court, challenging perceptions and promoting inclusivity.

Oda Kaito’s journey is far from over. At just 19, he has already achieved what many athletes only dream of. His dedication, talent, and unwavering spirit promise a bright future for wheelchair tennis and a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Keep checking archyde.com for the latest updates on Oda Kaito and all your favorite sports news. We’ll continue to provide in-depth coverage and analysis as his career unfolds, bringing you the stories that matter, fast.