Local & Community
Charlie Cooper, Junior Wheelchair Multi Grand Slam Champion Finds Inspiration Through BNP Paribas Open
The 2025 BNP Paribas Open is just around the corner. The tournament brings the world's best tennis players to Indian Wells for what many call the "fifth slam," inspiring athletes hoping to one day be on a stage like the pros. That's that case for 17-year-old Charlie Cooper, a professional wheelchair tennis player who found inspiration from watching the greats.
Born with spina bifida, Charlie was told as a child that he would never walk. Three years later, he defied all odds—first walking with leg braces, and later discovering a passion for wheelchair tennis. His journey began at a tennis clinic at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, where he met his longtime coach, D'Wayne Begay. From that moment on, his love for the sport ignited, setting him on a path to success.
Charlie has already secured major titles, including the 2024 U.S. Open Junior Wheelchair Singles Title and the 2025 Australian Open Junior Wheelchair Singles and Doubles Titles. His next goals include a shot at the Roland Garros Junior Wheelchair Grand Slam Title and eventually winning Gold at the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
Despite his rapid rise in the sport, Charlie remains focused on inspiring the next generation.
By: NBC Palm Springs
February 28, 2025
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