Growing up around tennis, Niekie developed a natural love for the game from a very young age. Her passion was further ignited when her mother saw a documentary about wheelchair tennis. This led to a visit to the then national coach, Aad Zwaan, where she instantly fell in love with the sport.

Career Highlights

Niekie's career has seen its share of challenges. She sustained a wrist injury in 2013 and a shoulder injury in 2015. More recently, she required surgery on a hand injury in March 2023 but made a strong return to action by June of the same year.

Language Proficiency and Playing Style

Niekie is multilingual, speaking Dutch, English, French, German, Spanish, and Swedish. She plays left-handed, which adds a unique dimension to her game. Her playing style and determination have earned her recognition and respect in the sport.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Niekie aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. This goal reflects her ongoing commitment to excellence and her desire to represent her country on one of the world's biggest stages for athletes with disabilities.

Personal Influences

Niekie draws inspiration from Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal. His tenacity and success have been a guiding force for her throughout her career. Additionally, she lives by the philosophy of Nelson Mandela: "It always seems impossible until it's done."

Niekie's journey in wheelchair tennis is marked by resilience and passion. From her early days influenced by family to overcoming injuries and aiming for future Paralympic success, she continues to be a prominent figure in the sport. Her story is one of dedication and unwavering love for tennis.