Gordon Reid nets honorary degree from Glasgow Caledonian University

Grand Slam singles champion and Paralympic gold medallist Gordon Reid MBE served up an inspirational message as he received an honorary degree from Glasgow Caledonian University.

The wheelchair tennis superstar, who has won titles at Wimbledon, the US Open, the French Open, and the Australian Open, told students that anything is possible in life through hard work.

Born in Alexandria in 1991, he was a talented junior player until a week before his 13th birthday when a rare condition, Transverse Myelitis, left him paralysed from the waist down.

By the age of 16, he was pulling on a Team GB shirt and competing at his first Paralympic Games in Beijing.

Gordon discussed how he overcame adversity at a young age to rise to the top of the world rankings, at a masterclass held at GCU. He then received an honorary degree from the University for his outstanding achievements.

He said: "It's a great honour to receive this award from GCU, especially since I grew up near Glasgow and the city is my home now.

"My story is on the extreme scale but everyone goes through tough times in life. It is possible to overcome adversity and break down the barriers placed in front of you.

"You shouldn't set limits on yourself or what is possible."

Gordon, who is looking forward to a busy summer competing at the French Open and Wimbledon, is due to fly to Israel next week to compete for Team GB in the World Team Cup.

Professor Pamela Gillies CBE, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of GCU, said: "Gordon's story is truly remarkable. His journey to the top of world tennis as a Grand Slam wheelchair singles champion is a testament to his hard work, determination and incredible talent.

"An outstanding ambassador for sport in general, he continues to promote wheelchair tennis on the global stage.

"Gordon is an inspirational figure and we are delighted he has accepted our honorary degree and joins our university community for the Common Good."