- September 12, 2023
Vision Beyond Sight: Keralite Nibin Mathew’s extraordinary triumph in International Blind Tennis
By Bincy Babu
LONDON Sept 12: In the realm of sports, legends are often born from the most unexpected places. Nibin Mathew, hailing from the tranquil landscapes of Wayanad, Kerala, has emerged as a true sporting pioneer, carving his name into history as the first Indian to compete internationally in the exhilarating world of Blind Tennis. Nibin’s journey is a tapestry of ambition, resilience, and an unyielding spirit that defied the odds.
From Kerala Farms to Global Courts
Born into the humble farming family of Mathew and Mary, Nibin’s early years were spent amidst the lush fields of Wayanad. It was in this idyllic setting that he cultivated the seeds of ambition that would one day lead him to a remarkable destiny. As the son of farmers, Nibin understood the essence of hard work and dedication from a young age.
Master’s Degree in Tennis Dreams
After earning his master’s degree at IIT Bangalore, Nibinembarked on a career as a digital accessibility specialist at Bosch Global Software Technologies, stationed in Germany but working in Coimbatore. The corporate world seemed to beckon, but Nibin was about to discover a calling that would transcend his professional life.
The Serendipitous Workshop
In 2019, while stationed in Mumbai, Nibin’s life took an unexpected turn. He stumbled upon a workshop conducted by an Irish tennis coach at the MSLTa, and it was here that the spark of blind tennis ignited within him. It was a moment of serendipity that would set him on a path to greatness. In 2020, Nibin’s skills culminated in him being crowned the national champion in the B1 category, foreshadowing his international debut.
Blind Tennis: A Unique Challenge
Blind tennis, an adaptive version of the classic sport, demands not just skill but an acute sense of hearing and touch. The tennis ball emits a distinctive sound, guiding players to its location, while tactile markings on the court provide navigation cues. Blind tennis is played on the same hallowed courts as its sighted counterpart, with an allowance for more bounces to level the playing field.
Historic Debut at IBSA World Games
The year 2023 will forever be etched in the records of Indian sports history. Blind tennis made its debut at the IBSA World Games held at the University of Birmingham from August 18th to 27th, and Nibin Mathew stood at the forefront of India’s representation. Across eight intense matches, including a challenging doubles fixture, Nibin went toe-to-toe with global competitors from Lithuania, Germany, the UK, Argentina, Mexico, Pakistan, and Spain. Amidst triumph and adversity, he emerged victorious in five encounters but faced a formidable setback in the semi-finals against Pakistan. Unwavering in spirit, Nibin secured the coveted bronze medal in the third-place face-off against Spain’s Carlos Arbos.
Sponsorship and National Pride
Nibin’s remarkable odyssey was made possible by the unwavering support of Bosch Global Software Technologies (BGSw), who sponsored his journey to international acclaim. India, swelling with pride, hailed Nibin’s achievements as a symbol of resilience and a testament to the nation’s sporting prowess.
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Championing Blind Tennis in India
Nibin Mathew’s journey isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s a clarion call for the advancement of blind tennis in India. He aspires to rally government bodies and sports organizations to nurture this sport, ensuring that visually impaired athletes are given every opportunity to shine on the global stage.
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Nibin Mathew’s journey is a story of transcendence, proving that dreams can shatter the barriers of circumstance. From the verdant farms of Kerala to the international tennis courts, he exemplifies the limitless potential of human ambition. Nibin’slegacy will forever inspire us to believe in the extraordinary, reminding us that true champions are defined not by sight but by the vision they carry within.