HELENSBURGH wheelchair tennis star Gordon Reid has been praised by the town following his win in Paris with doubles partner Alfie Hewitt.
The British pair ended their long wait for Paralympic doubles gold - the only accolade missing from their record-breaking honours list - with a dominant straight-sets win at Roland Garros.
The two-time silver medallists celebrated gold on Court Philippe-Chatrier after dispatching Japanese second seeds Takuya Miki and Tokito Oda 6-2 6-1
It was success for the Britons, who are reigning Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon champions, and adds to the 21 grand slam doubles titles they have won together.
On winning the title, Gordon said: "“We finally did it, it's ours. It feels amazing, even if it's not fully sunk in yet, the emotions and adrenaline are still high.
"We've been desperate this for a long time, we've come close twice and felt that heartbreak and pain.
"Those matches have been some of the toughest moments of my career so sit here with the gold around our necks is one of the best feelings.
“Sometimes you need to feel some pain to enjoy the highs when they come, we need to really savour this moment.”
Now the Helensburgh and Lomond community have rallied round the athlete to express their pride and support after the golden win.
Mandy Carrington said: "Huge congratulations boys! Everyone is so very proud of you both!! ..can we get a gold postbox now?"
Alison Terras Shearer added: "What a tennis match they were amazing. Well done Gordon and Alfie. Gold at last so well deserved."
"Congratulations! Amazing duo. Soo proud. What an achievement. Simply the best!", Anna Curley said, continuing the praise.
Councillor Maurice Corry said: "Many congratulations to you both on such a great win in Paris! Well done to the Freeman of Argyll and Bute again!"
And Allan Maclean said: "Well done the both of you! Smashing it Gordon!."
Jackie Baillie MSP said: “I am delighted that Gordon Reid has now enjoyed further success by winning his first Paralympic Gold medal.
“I have followed Gordon’s career, alongside his partner, Alfie Hewett, and this is the title which has evaded them until now.
“Gordon’s hard work and dedication, combined with sheer talent, have led him to sporting success.
“I wish Gordon every continued success in his tennis career, he should be so proud. I know the people of Helensburgh and Lomond are proud of him.”
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