Esther Werger: multiple champion with paralyzed legs

Esther was born in the Netherlands in 1981. Since childhood, she has been passionate about sports and engaged in swimming.

However, during physical activity, the girl often got sick. Contrary to many tests, doctors have not been able to give Esther an accurate diagnosis for a long time. After several brain hemorrhages, doctors finally identified Esther as vascular myelopathy. At 9, the girl underwent a complicated surgery that lasted about 10 hours. Unfortunately, the surgery further worsened the condition of the little girl who had paralyzed both her legs.

The wheelchair didn’t prevent Esther from continuing her sporting activities. She was quite successful in basketball and volleyball, but tennis brought her worldwide fame. Werger was a 42-time Grand Slam champion. Esther’s hundreds of victories have inspired people with disabilities who dream of a sports career.

Although she finally retired from professional sport in 2013, she continues to make progress. Educated in sports management, Werger is now Director of the International Wheelchair Tennis Tournament, a consultant to the Dutch Paralympic team and a lecturer. Also, she has established a charity foundation to help sick children practice their favorite sport.