Photo: Mathilde Dusol
It's rare that René Froger's great song "This is the moment" is more on point than now. Because for Niels the moment of truth is approaching! Paralympic finals await him on Wednesday, September 4 and Thursday, September 5.
In case you are not in Paris or did not follow the NOS streams, we are happy to update you. Niels is currently competing in the Paralympics in the French capital and city of lights. That he has biggest plans is no big secret. He actually wants to top his performance from three years ago, when he returned from Tokyo with gold (doubles) and bronze (singles).
He has that chance now. Niels is in fact going like a rocket in Paris and showing his best form. In the doubles, he and his regular doubles partner Sam Schröder first swept the gravel with the extremely athletic Lucas Sithole and Donald Ramphadi from South Africa: 6-1 and 6-1.
Niels' fans watch intently. Image: NOS.nl
Double bagel
Even without a teammate, Niels impressed. In the first round he tied the aforementioned Sithole with the proverbial winner: 6-0 and 6-2. Against Canadian Rob Shaw a double bagel was on the French menu, or twice 6-0. Bon appétit!
Tuesday afternoon Ahmet Kaplan awaited. Niels dominated his own service turns and attacked the Turk's underhand service frequently - and successfully. After two sets the case was decided: 6-1 and 6-1. A phenomenal lob from almost beaten position, on match point, was the final blow this match deserved.
Will Niels' dream come true?
Excitement is now rising to greater heights than Paris' most famous tower. Niels and Sam play the doubles final together Wednesday afternoon. When they look over the net, they face Andy Lapthorne and Greg Slade. On Thursday, Niels' only unfulfilled dream - athletically speaking, that is - can come true. Then he will play the singles final against Sam Schroeder.
Follow the finals!
Want to follow the finals? Then quickly pack your weekend bag and take the train, car or plane to Paris. Or follow it live on NOS.nl. Wherever you watch: for every point made, shout as loud as you can for Niels. Your housemates, schoolmates or colleagues will understand.