KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian wheelchair tennis player Muhammad Faiz Irfan Khalili has been named among the world’s top 10 players to receive the prestigious Grand Slam Development Players Grant from the International Tennis Federation (ITF), securing £7,000 (RM36,711) to support his professional career and participation in international tournaments.
Speaking to Scoop, Wheelchair Tennis Malaysia (WTM) president Muhd Iqbal Sulaiman described Faiz’s achievement as “a historic milestone for Malaysian tennis” and a testament to the country’s growing presence in international wheelchair tennis.
“Players like Faiz, Abu Samah Borhan and Muhamad Yusshazwan have shown that with consistent planning, hard work and the right support, Malaysian wheelchair tennis can produce world-class athletes who compete on the global stage,” he said.
The Grand Slam Development Fund, managed by the committees of the Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the US Open, awards only 10 places each year to players who meet strict performance and ranking criteria.
Faiz’s selection not only provides vital funding for travel and competition in the Uniqlo Wheelchair Tennis Circuit, but also accelerates his journey towards competing in a Grand Slam event.
“I am deeply honoured to be recognised among the world’s top 10,” Faiz said in a brief message to Scoop.
“This grant will help me compete in more international tournaments, gain experience and improve my ranking. My goal is to continue building my career with the support of Wheelchair Tennis Malaysia and the National Sports Council and, God willing, one day compete at a Grand Slam.”
Since 2008, Wheelchair Tennis Malaysia has worked closely with the National Sports Council and expert coaches to nurture players capable of competing internationally.
Faiz’s achievement “reflects the success, commitment and credibility of our association in developing wheelchair tennis in Malaysia and inspiring the next generation of athletes with disabilities,” WTM said.
According to WTM, plans are already underway to expand Faiz’s 2026 tournament schedule, with additional funding applications submitted to the ITF for approval.
If all goes smoothly, Faiz will be well positioned to climb the global rankings and continue Malaysia’s growing legacy in wheelchair tennis. – March 2, 2026