Dylan Alcott is one of the most popular faces in the world, not just in Australia. The wheelchair tennis star reached new heights last year. In 2021, Dylan won four Grand Slam titles, along with a gold medal in the Tokyo Paralympics, the elusive Golden Slam in tennis. 

After achieving that feat last year, the 31-year-old Australian decided that the 2022 Australian Open will be his last tournament. Today, Dylan was playing his semi-final match against Andy Lapthorne of Great Britain, which he won. However, after the match, Alcott received one of the best news of his life.

Dylan Alcott receives the Australian of The Year award

In the Australian Open wheelchair tennis semi-final match, Dylan Alcott beat his rival Andy Lapthorne in 1 hour and 9 minutes by 6-3,6-0. After the match, Dylan found out that he will receive the Australian Of The Year 2022 award in Canberra, the capital of Australia. 

He had to fly immediately from Melbourne to Canberra after the announcement of the news. This award also had some extra value to Dylan because he became the first person with a disability to win this award since the creation of the award 62 years ago. 

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After winning that award, Dylan said, “I’m forever grateful. My purpose today and everyday is to change perceptions so people with disability can live the lives they deserve to live. I’ll do my best to make you all proud as your Australian of the Year.”

Tennis legend, Rod Laver, reacted to the news and congratulated Dylan. He said, “You are so deserving of this great honour my friend, good luck in your quest for an 8th Australian title! Rocket.”

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Dylan has always been a big advocate and activist for people with disabilities. He repeatedly insists that it’s his aim to ensure that people with disabilities can “live the lives they deserve to live.” 

Alcott is hoping for a fairytale ending at the Australian Open

Before the Australian Open, Dylan announced that this will be his last tournament. After winning his semi-final match, Dylan will face Sam Schroder of the Netherlands on Thursday’s final in search of his 8th Australian Open title. He’s certainly hoping for a packed crowd in the Rod Laver Arena, as this will be his last dance.

Can Dylan win his 8th Australian Open title? Let us know in the comments.

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