Middelkoop, thank you

The characteristic groan no longer echoes.

Wherever Matwé Middelkoop appeared on the court, the audience knew in no time that a fighter had entered the arena.

Full of passion, commitment and dedication, he whipped the ball. Day after day. Week after week. Tournament after tournament. Year after year. And that for no less than 36 years.

Middelkoop was no mediocrity. He won no fewer than 14 ATP titles in doubles between 2016 and 2023. This took him to an impressive 18th place in the world rankings.

At the Libéma Open in 2022, he reached the semi-finals, but his impact on the tournament went beyond that.

The energetic Brabant native meant a lot to the young people who always turned out in large numbers. Signing autographs, giving a clinic or posing for photos with fans, Middelkoop was there for everyone.

We can call him a tennis animal. Even now that he is embarking on a different career path. As enterprising as he was on the court, he is also enterprising off it. With his sports brand Oncourt, his tennis heart continues to beat. Once again, full of passion, commitment and dedication.

Without a groan, but not in silence.

We wish you every success, Matwé.