For the first time in the tournament’s history, the 2023 Australian Open featured blind and low vision (BLV) tennis matches, spurring players’ hopes of growing competition in the sport.
Australian BLV B3 champion Mick Leigh hailed the exhibition matches that were held in Melbourne on 23 January as a milestone, not only in his career but for the growth of the sport worldwide.
“It was a dream come true,” 44-year-old Leigh said.
“I never thought I would play competitive tennis ever again due to my deteriorating eyesight, let alone play at the Australian Open. It was also great to be part of the first BLV exhibition matches to showcase our wonderful game.”
Showcasing the sport
Leigh grew up watching the Australian Open – a tournament which, under various names, was first contested…