“Football is big in South Africa, to be more specific Kaizer Chiefs are immensely popular and with their support, wheelchair tennis can be recognised.” These are the words of wheelchair tennis star Lucas Sithole after meeting Amakhosi’s duo of Daniel Cardoso and Tsepo Masilela at the SA Open Wheelchair Tennis tournament on Tuesday, 5 April.

“It is good to be here and be part of this great event,” said Cardoso, who, together with his teammate Masilela played an exhibition match at the SA Open Wheelchair Tennis tournament taking place at the Ellis Park Arena from 5 to 9 April 2016.

Masilela partnered with two wheelchair tennis stars, Evans Maripa and Stephan Houdet, while Cardoso partnered with Alwande Skhosana.

“It is the first time I witness this,” reflected Cardoso. “It shows that no matter your physical condition, you can enjoy the sport you love. I played tennis at primary school, but, to be honest, I wasn’t really good in it.

The 26-year-old defender also revealed that, “I always wanted to be a sport person though it takes hard work and sacrifice as you can see at this tournament, the guys are working hard.”

“I enjoyed participating in this tournament,” commented Masilela, admitting that he found the going tough, definitely feeling more comfortable on the football pitch than on the tennis court.

On the other hand, Chiefs’ left-back loves watching tennis: “I especially try to follow the grand slams. Serena Williams and Raphael Nadal are my favourites.”

Wheelchair tennis sensation Lucas Sithole was also present. He is a triple amputee, having lost both his legs and his right arm in a childhood accident. Sithole grew up in the small mining town of Dannhauser in KwaZulu-Natal, becoming one of the best singles players in the world.

Sithole is now setting his sights on the Rio Olympics, hoping to earn himself and South Africa a gold medal.

Masilela watched the wheelchair tennis champion with admiration, heaping praise: “We are honoured to be able to mix with these stars. I am happy to meet Lucas, who’s a great ambassador for our country. He always flies the South African flag high whenever he plays.”

Sithole, meanwhile, expressed his passion and his love for Amakhosi: “I started to support Kaizer Chiefs when I was about five years old. I have been a big fan of the team ever since.”

In appreciation of the presence of the two Glamour Boys at the tournament, Sithole concluded: “It is very important for Kaizer Chiefs to support wheelchair tennis because through them, we will get exposure.”