British wheelchair tennis star Andy Lapthorne says a phone call from Sir Alex Ferguson in 2016 still gives him goosebumps.
The former Manchester United manager, a legendary figure, contacted Lapthorne prior to the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio.
The 34-year-old attributes the call to having a life-changing impact on his results.
He stated, “That phone call still gives me goosebumps.”
Lapthorne, who has cerebral palsy affecting his ability to stand for extended periods or fully straighten his arms, competes in wheelchair tennis in quad singles and doubles events.
He has achieved a world no. 1 ranking in quad singles and holds 16 Grand Slam titles in quad doubles, a record he aims to extend at Wimbledon next month.
At the time of the call, Lapthorne already had one singles and five doubles Grand Slam victories, but Ferguson didn`t compare him to a great tennis player.
Lapthorne recalled: “We talked about Eric Cantona, because he`d been told I was a bit of a maverick.”
“He spoke about embracing that quality, but also the importance of listening to those who know me well.”
Sir Alex`s encouragement propelled the British player to the finals in Rio, where he was ultimately defeated in straight sets by Australia`s Dylan Alcott.
However, the positive influence persisted despite the loss, and Lapthorne went on to become a prolific winner in wheelchair tennis, particularly in quad doubles.
He is currently ranked fourth in quad singles and third in quad doubles.
Earlier this week at the Eastbourne Open, playing on home soil, he secured titles in both singles and doubles, demonstrating the continued relevance of Sir Alex`s advice nearly a decade later.
Next month at Wimbledon, Lapthorne and doubles partner Greg Slade will aim to secure his third doubles trophy at the prestigious tournament, having previously won in 2021.
