2013 US OPEN: Round 4 at Medinah

Justin Rose claims first major with US Open victory

Leaderboard: Rose +1, Mickelson and Day = +3

Justin Rose became the first Englishman to lift the US Open title in 43 years and clinch his first major trophy in Golf. Rose, who went round in a level par 70, finished the tournament on +1 which was enough to win by two shots over Phil Mickelson and Jason Day. Rose was -2 for his final round before two bogeys on 14 and 16 put him back to +1. However, Phil Mickelson, who was celebrating his birthday, made two early double bogeys on the front nine which looked to have put him out of contention. Amazingly, Mickelson holed his second shot on the 10th hole for an eagle to put him back in the frame. It was not enough as two further bogeys meant that Mickselson needed to birdie the last hole to force a play-off, but it was not to be as the now six time US Open runner up fell two shots short. It was a similar story for Jason Day, who carded a final round of 71 to end on +3, as the Australian could not sink a putt all day which ultimately cost him the title. Three bogeys on the back nine meant that Day will have to wait another day to claim his maiden major. Jason Dufner pulled out some brilliance on the final day at Medinah which at one point saw the American at -5 on his round going into the 15th hole. Unfortunately, a triple bogey ended a magical round but a 67 left Dufner posting an early clubhouse lead at +5. A classy Rose performance overshadowed Dufner's round but it will be remembered here. It was a sad end to the US Open at Medinah for Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy who both ended poorly. Woods made a triple bogey 8 at the second from which he couldn't recover on his was to a 74 and end on +13 whilst McIlroy managed a quadruple bogey 8 at the eleventh to eventually shoot 76 and score +14.



How my favourite Golfer's fared:

Luke Donald ended on +6 after an awful final round of 75 which sadly put him early out of contention. It was a decent overall performance which is pleasing after a difficult few weeks being out of form.

Rickie Fowler couldn't get anything going in his final round of 74 to finish on +7. A solitary birdie was eclipsed by the numerous bogeys throughout his final round never gave him the chance to mix with the leaders. Another good effort in a major though which will only boost his confidence and I hope to see him continue on the front pages of leaderboards.

Performance of the Day; Jason Dufner could be the only person to receive this accolade after an absolutely outstanding 67. It was a real shame that the triple bogey happened as to every other hole Dufner played today was pure quality and the putter was red hot.

2013 US OPEN: Round 3 at Medinah

Mickelson takes one shot lead into the final round of the US Open

Leaders: -1 Mickelson. Even Par Mahan, Swhartzel, Stricker.

Phil Mickelson shot a level par round of 70, which takes the American one step closer to the elusive US Open title he desires, with a one shot lead. Mickelson recovered from two bogeys on the front nine after making back to back birdies at 10 and 11 on his way to shooting 70. There are three competitors one shot behind as Swhartzel and Mahan both shot a one under 69 whilst Stricker kept his composure to post 70. There is still a strong English contingent in contention going into the final round as Justin Rose and Luke Donald are two shots behind after both went round in 71. Jason Day and Rickie Fowler both impressively shot under par scored of 68 and 67 respectively to stay in contention at +2 and +3. It was a poor third round for Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy as both fell out of contention. Woods began well with a birdie at the first hole but it became bogey golf for the world number 1 as he posted 77 to finish on +9. McIlroy could only post 75 after a similarly awful day left him on +8.



Performance of the Day: Rickie Fowler for a brilliant round of 67 that put the American into contention going into the final round.

2013 US OPEN: Round 2 at Medinah

Mickelson and Horschel tied for lead after Round 2 at Medinah

Leaders: -1 Mickelson, Horshcel. +1 Donald, Rose.

Billy Horschel shot a three under par round of 67 to tie Phil Mickelson for the lead of the US Open after the second round at Medinah. Only one bogey at the 13th stopped Horschel from taking the lead after recording four impressive birdies. Mickelson took a share of the lead after his only birdie of the day on 18 saved a frustrating round, that included three bogeys, to shoot 72. Justin Rose managed three birdies on his way to +1 after a -1 round of 69. Luke Donald conceded two shots after going round in 72. The Englishman salvaged his round with four birdies after a run of five bogeys in seven holes to maintain in contention at the top. Tiger Woods began well with two birdies in the opening nine holes but a bogey on the 18th meant the world number 1 was reduced to a round of 70 to leave him four shots off the lead. Similarly, Rory McIlroy could only manage a round of 70 after four birdies and four bogeys left the Northern Irishman four behind.
With the cut being +9, many big names will not be continuing at the Weekend. Previous US Open winner Graeme McDowell made two double bogeys on his last two holes to finish four shots off the cut at +13. Zach Johnson shot 77 to finish on +11 whilst Keegan Bradley made a triple bogey 7 on his way to 75 and +12.



Performance of the Day: Billy Horschel with the lowest round of the day (67) to claim a share of the lead going into the Weekend. Very impressive from the American.

Aegon Championships (Queen's Club): Day 7: Final

Andy Murray wins the Aegon Championships at Queen's Club

Andy Murray defeated Marin Cilic in the Final to claim the Queen's Club Title. It was another impressive performance from the British number one who will gain plenty of confidence going into Wimbledon. It was a great start to the match from Murray who took a 4-1 lead after breaking Cilic's opening service game. However, Cilic battled back and broke the Murray serve twice to take the opening set 7-5. It was another close set in the second before Murray managed to convert a vital break of serve to level the Final at one set apiece. It was Murray who showed the more aggression in the final set which eventually paid off as one break of serve was enough to win the match and the trophy.



Final Result:

Murray (1) beat Cilic (5) 5-7, 7-5, 6-3

Performance of the Tournament: Lleyton Hewitt deserves huge credit for making the Semi Finals. Hewitt took some huge wins out of this tournament, especially defeating Juan Martin Del Potro in style. It will give the Australian massive belief that he can have a good run at Wimbledon this year.

Aegon Championships (Queen's Club): Day 6: Semi Finals

Murray to meet Cilic in Queen's Club Final

Andy Murray fought back from a set down to beat the dangerous Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in three sets to make the Final. It was an even opening set but Tsonga piled the pressure on the Murray serve in game nine to convert the first break of serve in the match to take a 5-4 lead. Tsonga was able to hold his serve as the Frenchman took the opening set. Murray battled back in the second set and managed to break the Tsonga serve at 3-3. Murray was able to hold his serve for the remainder of the set to level the match. With the momentum in Murray's favour heading into the deciding set, Murray converted an early break which was compounded by a second break of serve to take the third set 6-2.
Murray will face last year's winner in the Final, Marin Cilic. The big Croatian defeated a rejuvenated Lleyton Hewitt in their Semi Final in three sets. Cilic took the first set after breaking the Hewitt serve before Hewitt managed to break the Cilic serve in the second set to level the close encounter. It was Cilic who prevailed in the deciding set, as two breaks of serve was enough to see the Croatian enter the Final for a second consecutive year.



Semi Final Results:

Murray (1) beat Tsonga (4) 4-6, 6-3, 6-2
Cilic (5) beat Hewitt 6-4, 4-6, 6-2

Performance of the Day: Andy Murray for a brilliant fightback against a strong opponent in Tsonga.

2013 US OPEN: Round 1 at Medinah

Mickelson leads by one shot after rain hit first round at Medinah

Leaders: Mickelson -3, Donald -2, Goggin -2

Phil Mickelson holds the lead by one shot after the first round of the US Open. Mickelson carded an impressive round of 67 to lead Luke Donald and Matthew Goggin, who both shot 68. Play was unable to start for over three hours after the threat of lightning and thunder delayed proceedings. When play did commence, the players found the Medinah course very tricky as only five competitors carded an under par first round. It was Mickelson though who stole the show, as a single bogey at the 11th the only blemish of a brilliant opening round. Luke Donald looked set to hold the first round lead but two bogeys on the last three holes brought the Englishman back to -2. Rickie Folwer and Lee Westwood both ended on level par after double bogeys hindered their opening rounds. Bubba Watson, Justin Rose and Ian Poulter remain close to the leaders on +1 after their eventful rounds. The Masters champion, Adam Scott, got to -3 after a birdie at 11 but a bogey run saw the Australian fall back to +2. It was a mixed day for Tiger Woods, Rory Mcilroy and Sergio Garcia as they all finished on +3. Woods couldn't stop making bogeys after making birdies whilst McIlroy dropped three shots on the 15th, 17th and 18th. Garcia began his round awfully with a double bogey on 14 which was followed by a quadruple bogey on 15 as the Spaniard went out in 40. Impressively, three birdies and an eagle salvaged a terrible situation for Garcia who came home in 33.



Performance of the Day: Phil Mickelson for an incredible round of 67 on a very tough Medinah course.

Aegon Championships (Queen's Club): Day 5: Quarter Finals

Murray to meet Tsonga in the Semi Finals 

Andy Murray overcame Benjamin Becker in straight sets and will now meet Joe-Wilfried Tsonga, who beat Kudla in commanding fashion. Lleyton Hewitt played quite brilliantly to claim a huge scalp in Juan Martin Del Potro. The week came to an end for the returning Del Potro as Hewitt found his top-form to win in three sets. Hewitt broke the Del Potro serve twice before taking the opening set whilst Del Potro broke the Hewitt serve twice in the second set to level the match. It was Hewitt who maintained his composure in the third as the gritty Australian broke the Del Potro serve a further two times. Hewitt will now meet Marin Cilic in the Semi Finals as the Croatian battled past Tomas Berdych in straight sets.



Quarter Final Results:

Murray (1) beat Becker 6-4, 7-6
Cilic (5) beat Berdych (2) 7-5, 7-6
Hewitt beat Del Potro (3) 6-2, 2-6, 6-2
Tsonga (4) beat Kudla 6-3, 6-2

Performance of the Day: Lleyton Hewitt again showing his class to beat Del Potro in three sets. Some unbelievable returning against the Del Potro serve proved he still has it in to compete in the big matches. How far can Hewitt go at Wimbledon in this form?

Aegon Championships (Queen's Club): Day 4: Round 3

Murray comfortably through to the Quarter Finals but Del Potro crushes Evans

Andy Murray easily saw off Matosevic in straight sets after breaking serve twice in each set. It was a decent display from Murray who never looked in any trouble. It was a similar case for second seed Tomas Berdych who defeated Zemlja in straight sets. Juan Martin Del Potro ended Dan Evans fine run in crushing style. The Argentine only conceded three games during the match after Evans was bagled in the first set. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came through a tough encounter with Sijsling to win in three whilst Marin Cilic claimed victory in three sets after a big serving match with Feliciano Lopez. Lleyton Hewitt continued his brilliant performances with a three set win over the big American sixth seed Sam Querrey.



Selected Third Round Results:

Murray (1) beat Matosevic 6-2, 6-2
Berdych (2) beat Zemlja (16) 6-3, 6-4
Del Potro (3) beat Evans 6-0, 6-3
Tsonga (4) beat Sijsling 7-5, 5-7, 6-3
Cilic (5) beat Lopez 4-6, 7-6, 7-5
Hewitt beat Querrey (6) 5-7, 6-3, 6-4

Performance of the Day: Lleyton Hewitt who rolled back the years to fight back from a set down to beat Sam Querrey, who holds a massive serve, to claim single breaks in the next two sets to win.

Aegon Championships (Queen's Club): Day 3: Round 2

Murray wins opener whilst Hewitt rolls back the years

Andy Murray began his comeback from a back injury with a win over Nicolas Mahut in straight sets. Murray only needed one break to seal the first set before winning the second in a tie-break. This performance will give Murray some much needed confidence as the Brit looks ahead to a huge grass court season. Lleyton Hewitt defeated the next big thing in Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets as the Australian showed patience in the rallies to oust the Bulgarian out of the tournament. Dan Evans continued his impressive run to beat Jarkko Nieminem in three sets whilst Feliciano Lopez defeated Julien Benneteau in straight sets. Both Marin Cilic and Tomas Berdych progressed to the next round after comfortable victories against their respective opponents.



Selected Second Round Results:

Murray (1) beat Mahut 6-3, 7-6
Berdych (2) beat De Bakker 6-1, 6-4
Cilic (5) beat Dodig 6-3, 6-4
Hewiit beat Dimitrov (10) 6-4, 6-3
Lopez beat Benneteau (11) 7-6, 6-4
Evans beat Nieminem (13) 6-4, 6-7, 6-4

Performance of the Day: Dan Evans for the 13th seed in Jarkko Nieminem in three well fought sets. Hugely impressive display which will bolster his confidence going into the first round at Wimbledon.

ICC Champions Trophy 2013 Day 5: Pakistan v South Africa (Edgbaston)

Dominant South Africa beat Pakistan by 67 runs.

South Africa's victory means that Pakistan face elimination if India win their next match. Hashim Amla scored  81 runs off 97 deliveries to help guide South Africa to 234-9 after 50 overs. It was too much for a poor Pakistan performance, even with a fighting Misbah who hit 55 off 75 balls, who were only able to post 167 as Ryan Mclaren took four wickets for 19 runs.



South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first. It was a decent opening as the Proteas progressed to 36-0 after their opening ten overs. They lost their first wicket to Hafeez, who dismissed Ingram (20) lbw to leave them 53-1. Amla stylishly moved to his fifty off 65 balls before Du Plessis (28) was caught off a top edge to reduce South Africa to 122-2. Ajmal took the vital wicket of Amla (81) who was caught after attempting a reverse sweep. Misbah showed some excellent fielding as he managed to run out both De Villiers (31) and Duminy (24) to leave S. Africa on 195-5. Mclaren (4) was out lbw before South Africa lost a further three wickets in the last two overs. Miller (19) was caught at extra cover by Misbah, Morris (1) was run out by Riaz and Phangsio (0) didn't even face a ball before being run out after the last delivery of the innings by Akmal which left South Africa on 234-9 after 50 overs.

Pakistan got off to a poor start as Morris bowled Farhat (2) at the end of the second over. Morris then took another wicket after Hafeez (7) was caught at square leg to leave them 18-2. Malik (8) was bowled by Duminy before Jamshed (42), who was going well, was caught and bowled by Tsotsobe as Pakistan were reduced to 86-4. Two quick Mclaren wickets saw Amin (16) and Akmal (0) both dismissed in the 39th over as Pakistan struggled to 134-6. Pakistan's last hope in Misbah was gone after being caught at midwicket for 55 runs. It was soon all over as Phangsio bowled Riaz (13) before Mclaren took the final two wickets of Ajmal (5) and Junaid (4) to leave Pakistan 167 all out as South Africa coasted to victory by 67 runs.

Performance of the Day: Hashim Amla who scored an impressive 81 runs off 97 balls which put South Africa out of sight against a poor Pakistan batting display.

ICC Champions Trophy 2013 Day 4: New Zealand v Sri Lanka (Cardiff)

New Zealand deny Sri Lanka to win by one wicket.

It was a low scoring affair in Cardiff as New Zealand dramatically beat Sri Lanka by one wicket. Sangakkara (68) saved a dismal batting display from Sri Lanka as they were bowled out for 138 runs after only 37.5 overs. Mitchell McClenaghan was in impressive form to take four wickets for 43 runs. Amazingly, New Zealand suffered a similar batting collapse as they struggled to reach their target of 139 runs. Some brilliant bowling from Lasith Malinga, who took four wickets, helped reduce New Zealand to 134-9. After Nathan McCullum (32) was dismissed, it looked as if Sri Lanka were going to win the match as they needed just one more wicket to win whilst New Zealand needed a further five runs. In a very tense finish, New Zealand managed to secure the runs required to finish on 139-9 and beat Sri Lanka by one wicket.



Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat first. It was the worst possible start for Sri Lanka as Pererak (0) was dismissed from the first ball of the day. The day did not get any better for the Sri Lankan batsmen after three further wickets fell in the first ten overs. McClenaghan bowled Dilshan (20), Jayawardene (20) was out lbw to Vettori and Chandimal (0) lasted four balls before edging behind to leave Sri Lanka 34-4 after nine overs. They managed to survive the next ten overs without loss of a wicket after slow progression. McClenaghan returned to the bowling attack to bowl Angelo Mathews (9) before Thirimanne (9) was run out by Williamson. Somehow amongst all the chaotic batting, Sangakkara completed his fifty, taking Sri Lanka to 99-6. It was not long until they lost their last four wickets though as Perera (29) was caught at long-on. The last hope for Sri Lanka was wiped out as Sangakkara (68) was caught at backward point before Nathan McCullum took his second wicket as Eranga (0), who lasted four balls, was caught in the field. It was all over in the 38th over for Sri Lanka as Malinga (2) edged into the slips to leave his team 138 all out.

From what should have been a simple run chase for New Zealand, it turned out to be a real struggle. It started with Ronchi (7) being dismissed after edging behind in the fourth over. However, the real problems for the Kiwis started in the ninth over as they lost three wickets for only one run in the space of seven balls. It went quickly from being 48-1 to 49-4 in a disastrous spell for New Zealand. Malinga dismissed Williamson (16) lbw, Herath then got Taylor (0) out lbw before Guptill (25) edged into the slips. New Zealand continued to struggle as Franklin (6) was dismissed lbw before Vettori (5) suffered the same fate as the Kiwis were left on 80-6 after the first 20 overs. The important wickets of the two McCullum brothers were both taken by Malinga as he bowled Brendan (18) and got Nathan (32) lbw. It looked anyone's game when Mills (3) was run out to leave New Zealand needing a further five runs to win with one wicket left. Fortunately, Southee (13*) and McClenaghan (1*) were able to spare New Zealand's blushes and claim victory by one wicket.

Performance of the Day: Nathan McCullum two important wickets and scoring 32 much needed runs.

Aegon Championships (Queen's Club): Day 2: First and Second Round

Del Potro and Querrey both through to third round after rain hit day at Queen's Club.

The rain played havoc with the schedule of play but Sam Querrey and Juan Martin Del Potro both managed to secure wins before the close of play. Querrey's monstrous serve was able to keep him in the match against a lively Bedene as the big American took the first set tie-break. Bedene showed some classy ground-strokes in the second set and secured a vital break of serve to level the match. It was the higher ranked Querrey who took the third set tie-break to progress into the next round. Juan Martin Del Potro hasn't played for a while and it showed against an experienced Xavier Malisse. Del Potro was able to win the opening set after a tie-break before Malisse dominated the second set to level the match. Del Potro managed to find some form towards the end of the deciding set and eventually won 7-5. Kyle Edmund can be proud of his performance against Zemlja even though the young Brit lost the close encounter. It will provide some valuable confidence and may even see him receive a wildcard entry into Wimbledon.



Selected First Round Results:

Benneteau (11) beat Mannarino 7-6, 6-3
Zemlja (16) beat Edmund 6-4, 7-6

Selected Second Round Results:

Del Potro (3) beat Malisse 7-6, 1-6, 7-5
Querrey (6) beat Bedene 7-6, 5-7, 7-6
Kudla beat Paire (9) 6-3, 6-4

Performance of the Day: Kudla for beating a very good prospect in Paire in straight sets.

Aegon Championships (Queen's Club): Day 1: Round 1

Hewitt and Dimitrov both fight back to progress at the Aegon Championships. 

Lleyton Hewitt fought back from a set down against American opponent Michael Russell to win his opening match of the grass court season. After conceding the first set, Hewitt only lost one game in the second set before breaking in the third to seal victory. It was a similar story for the Ballgirls favourite Grigor Dimitrov, who similarly fought back from a set down to win in three. Dimitrov broke the Dudi Sela serve twice in the second to level the match before trailing 5-4 in the final set as Sela served for the match. The Bulgarian was able to break the Sela serve after being two points away from defeat and win the tie break, much to the delight of the female audience members. Good news for Dan Evans who progressed to the second round after defeating Pella in straight sets.



Selected First Round Results:

Paire (9) beat Baker 7-5, 6-2
Dimitrov (10) beat Sela 4-6, 6-2, 7-6
Hewitt beat Russell 4-6, 6-1, 6-3
Evans beat Pella 6-3, 6-1
Dodig beat Ward 6-7, 7-6, 7-6
Stakhovsky beat Corrie 6-4, 7-6

Performance of the Day: Grigor Dimitrov for impressively fighting back on several occasions against Sela to win in a dramatic third set tie-break.

ICC Champions Trophy 2013 Day 3: England V Australia (Edgbaston)

England start with a 48 run win over Australia

England got off to a great start in their opening match against Australia as they won by 48 runs. It looked as though England were making slow progress in their innings but great knocks from Ian Bell (91) and Ravi Bopara (47*) helped England reach 269-6 after 50 overs. It was only a brilliant bowling display from England to deny Australia reaching their target of 270 runs. Australia were reduced to 126-6 as Anderson overtook Darren Gough to become England's leading ODI wicket taker. Despite fifties from Bailey (55) and Faulkner (54*), it was not enough as England strolled to victory.



England won the toss and elected to bat which seemed a decent decision as they made their way to 54-0 after the opening powerplay. Unfortunately, Alistair Cook (30) edged behind as Shane Watson took Australia's first wicket. It was then slow but steady progress for England as Ian Bell made his fifty in the thirtieth over whilst at the crease with Jonathan Trott as England made their way to 142-1. In a effort to increase the run rate, Trott (43) edged behind to give Australia a much needed wicket. Two England wickets fell in the space of five balls as Faulkner bowled Ian Bell (91) before Root (12) was caught at mid-wicket to leave England on 189-4. It was a brief appearance from Morgan (8) who was bolwed by Mckay whilst to the disappointment of the crowd, Faulkner bowled Buttler (1) two balls later as England were reduced to 213-6 in the 43rd over. Fortunately, a 56 run partnership off 41 balls between Bopara (46*) and Bresnan (19) changed the game in favour of England as they pushed on to 269-6 after 50 overs.

Australia lost an early wicket as Broad dismissed Warner (9) in the sixth over to leave Australia 17-1. An important wicket fell in the fifteenth over as Watson (24) was caught at gully. Joe Root managed to dismiss Hughes (30) lbw to leave the Aussies on 94-3. It was then a batting collapse as Australia needed to up the run rate. Bresnan bowled Voges (15) Marsh (5) was caught at point. Five balls later Wade (1) was caught behind as Australia struggled to 136-6. Bailey completed his fifty but was soon caught at long-on. Bopara dismissed Johnson (8), who was caught at cover point, before Anderson put England closer to victory by bowling Starc (5) to leave Australia needing 80 runs off 31 balls with one wicket remaining. Faulkner impressively hit 54* off 42 balls whilst Mckay finished on 7* but it was not enough as they ended up on 221-9 after 50 overs which meant that England claimed victory by 48 runs.

Performance of the Day: Ian Bell for hitting 91 off 115 balls to provide England with stability and match winning runs. Unlucky not to make a century but played a pivotal role in England's first win the ICC Champions Trophy.

2013 Race 7 - Canadian GP: Race

Dominant Vettel storms to maiden Canadian Grand Prix win

Sebastian Vettel claimed his first ever victory at the Canadian Grand Prix ahead of Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. It was a dominant performance from the German Red Bull driver who never looked in trouble throughout the weekend. Alonso drove well to climb four places into second place, passing Hamilton seven laps before the finish. Paul Di Resta impressively climbed ten placed to finish in seventh whilst Felipe Massa rose eight positions to end in 8th. After a brilliant qualifying, Bottas was unable to finish the job as the young rookie dropped back to 14th after a disappointing day for Williams. 

                                    

Lap Incident Guide:

Lap 1: Clean getaway for the frontrunners. Bottas down three places after poor start. Alonso, Webber and Rosberg all climb one place whilst Raikkonen drops down one.

Lap 2: Massa overtakes Maldonado to take 13th place.

Lap 6: Vergne passes Bottas to take 6th place whilst Sutil drops five places after spinning.

Lap 7: Button passed Maldonado after the Williams suffers front wing damage.

Lap 8: Massa passes Perez to take 11th place.

Lap 10: Massa passes Hulkenberg to take 10th place.

Lap 12: Raikkonen passes Ricciardo to take 8th place.

Lap 20: Massa passes both Gutierrez and Bottas to take 12th place after his first pit stop.

Lap 21: Bottas passes Gutierrez to claim 13th place before Perez passes Gutierrez to take 14th place.

Lap 23: Vergne passes Raikkonen to claim 6th place.

Lap 24: Massa passes Button to take 10th place.

Lap 31: Rosberg drops to fifth after being overtaken by Webber and Alonso.

Lap 34: Perez passed Bottas to take 11th place.

Lap 37: Raikkonen passes Bottas to claim 12th place whilst Webber suffers front wing damage after Van Der Garde collision.

Lap 42: Alonso passes Webber to claim 3rd place.

Lap 48: First retirement as Van Der Garde unable to continue with damaged front wing.

Lap 49: Hulkenberg retires.

Lap 53: Massa passes Grosjean to take 10th place.

Lap 63: Alonso passes Hamilton to take second place.

Lap 66: Gutierrez crashes out.

Lap 70: Massa passes Raikkonen to claim 8th place before Vettel wins the Canadian Grand Prix!

Race Result:

1. Vettel (Red Bull) 1.32:09.143

2. Alonso (Ferrari)

3. Hamilton (Mercedes)

4. Webber (Red Bull) 

5. Rosberg (Mercedes)

6. Vergne (Torro Rosso)

7. Di Resta (Force India)

8. Massa (Ferrari)

9. Raikkonen (Lotus)

10. Sutil (Force India)

Championship Leaderboard:

1. Vettel (Red Bull) 132

2. Alonso (Ferrari) 96

3. Raikkonen (Lotus) 88

4. Hamilton (Mercedes) 77

5. Webber (Red Bull) 69

Constructors Leaderboard:

1. Red Bull 201

2. Ferrari 145

3. Mercedes 134

4. Lotus 114

5. Force India 51

Driver of the day: Fernando Alonso for keeping a close tail on Vettel after climbing four places to finish in second place. Another determined drive today from the Spaniard. 

2013 Race 7 - Canadian GP: Qualifying

Sebastian Vettel claims pole position for Canadian Grand Prix

Sebastian Vettel beat Lewis Hamilton to pole position in the third qualifying session whilst Bottas sits third on the grid after a wet qualifying. Raikkonen just made the top 10 in 9th place whilst Massa crashed in the second session to end up in 16th position. It was another poor qualifying for Mclaren as both Button and Perez missed out on making the top 10. It was a bad day for Force India and Grosjean as the two biggest shocks of the day came in the first session as both Di Resta and Grosjean were knocked out.

                                     

Starting Grid:

1. Vettel (Red Bull) 1.25.425
2. Hamilton (Mercedes)
3. Bottas (Williams)
4. Rosberg (Mercedes)
5. Webber (Red Bull)
6. Alonso (Ferrari)
7. Vergne (Torro Rosso)
8. Sutil (Force India)
9. Raikkonen (Lotus)
10. Ricciardo (Torro Rosso)

Performance of the Day: Vallteri Bottas for qualifying in third position. Brilliant performance from the young rookie.

French Open: Day 15 - Men's Final

Rafael Nadal wins record eighth title at Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal beat David Ferrer in straight sets to claim a world record eight French Open titles. Nobody has ever won a single Grand Slam eight times before which makes this a truly special day for Nadal. The match began well for Nadal as the third seed took an early break, only for Ferrer to break back soon after. However, the sheer ferocity of the Nadal forehand took its toll over Ferrer as the first set ended 6-3 to Nadal. More mounting pressure from the Nadal forehand and backhand saw the second set dominated by the favourite as two breaks of serve saw the second set finish 6-2. Another long rally filled set saw Nadal continue to edge closer to victory as the third seed took a crucial brake of serve. Nadal. Ferrer, who lost the first two sets to double faults, again lost the set to a double fault but this time it sealed the match for Nadal. Thoroughly deserved champion who is undoubtedly the king of clay.



Men's Final Result:

Nadal (3) beat Ferrer (4) 6-3, 6-2, 6-3

Performance of the Tournament: David Ferrer making his first Grand Slam final and for not losing a single set up until playing Nadal in the Final.

French Open: Day 14 - Women's Final

Serena Williams beats Maria Sharapova to win French Open

Serena Williams defeated Maria Sharapova in straight sets to win the French Open. It was a fiercely contested match in which both players claimed multiple breaks of serve but Serena was able to hold her nerve at the end of each set to claim victory. There were chances for Sharapova to take the lead in both sets but unforced errors ultimately cost her the Final. Serena's heavy groundstrokes met their match against Sharapova but the Williams serve proved too much in the end for the Russian. A good spectacle for the spectators but it did prove that there is a vast difference in class in the Women's game.



Women's Final Result:

S.Williams (1) beat Sharapova (2) 6-4, 6-4

Boys' Doubles Final Result:

Edmund (GBR)/ Silva (POR) (3) beat Garin (CHI)/ Jarry (CHI) (5) 6-3, 6-3

Performance of the Tournament: Sara Errani for following up her Final last year with a semi-final this year. Another strong showing from the Italian fifth seed who played brilliantly throughout. If Errani had not met Serena Williams in the semi-final then the Italian could have gone all the way.

ICC Champions Trophy 2013 Day 2: West Indies v Pakistan (Oval)

West Indies win by two wickets against Pakistan at The Oval

In a low scoring game, the West Indies struggled over the winning line as they reached their target of 171 in the 41st over after losing eight wickets. Pakistan's Misbah hit an unbeaten 96* but was completely let down by his team-mates as only Jamshed, who hit fifty, was able to reach double figures in their innings. They were bowled out for 170 after 48 overs before the West Indies got off to a poor start themselves. It was eventually left to Ramdin and Roach to see the West Indies across the winning line after a batting collapse of their own.



The West Indies won the toss and elected to bowl first in their opening encounter with Pakistan. It looked as though it was a great decision as Pakistan began awfully to their campaign as the West Indies reduced them to 15-3 in the seventh over. Farhat (2) only lasted five balls before being caught from a thick outside edge, Hafeez (4) lasted nine balls before being bowled by Roach whilst Shafiq (0) only lasted four balls as Roach ripped through the top order and take three early wickets. Jamshed and Misbah gave Pakistan some much needed stability as they put on a sizeable partnership of 90 runs. However, Jamshed (50) was caught in the field and this led to a complete batting collapse for Pakistan as they lost their next six wickets for only 55 runs. Malik (0) suffered a golden duck before Akmal (2) edged behind. Riaz (6) and Ajmal (2) were both run out before Khan (0) edged into the slips. A poor display from Pakistan was finally over after Irfan (2) was caught at short leg as they finished on 170 all out after 48 overs. If it wasn't for Misbah's unbeaten 96*, Pakistan would have been extremely embarrassed today.

With a small target of 171, the West Indies got off to a similarly poor start to Pakistan. Charles (9) was caught off a top edge whilst Bravo (0) edged behind to leave the West Indies 15-2 in the fifth over. The dangerous Gayle was dismissed for 39 after being bowled by Ajmal before Sarwan (1) quickly followed through an edge behind to leave the West Indies on 81-4. Samuels (30) was stumped by Hafeez in the 25th over before Pollard (30) edged behind as the West Indies continued to lose wickets. Bravo (19) was then out lbw before Narine (11) edged behind, leaving West Indies 165-8. There was still hope for Pakistan as they only needed two more wickets to win. However, the West Indies remained calm and collected as Ramdin (11*) and Roach (5*) scored the required six runs to claim victory by two wickets.

Performance of the Day: Kemar Roach for taking three important wickets and scoring the winning runs.

ICC Champions Trophy 2013 Day 1: South Africa v India (Cardiff)

India beat South Africa by 26 runs in opening match of ICC Champions Trophy

Dhawan hit 114 to help guide India to victory over South Africa in the first match of the ICC Champions Trophy. It was great start to the tournament as both teams played well in a high-scoring opening match. India made 331-7 after their 50 overs but it was too much for South Africa to chase as they ended up all out on 305.



South Africa won the toss and chose to field first on a good pitch in Cardiff. India started off very strongly as they raced to 53-0 after their opening powerplay. It only took them another five overs before Sharma and Dhawan completed their century partnership as India coasted to 100-0. The first wicket finally fell in the as Sharma (65), looking to score heavily, was caught in the field, leaving India 127-1. More Indian dominance saw Dhawan complete his century as they powered to 203-1. However, the wicket of Kohli (41) in the following over seemed to be a catalyst for further wickets to fall. Dhawan (114) was caught on the boundary after playing a sweep whilst Karthik (14) edged behind soon after as India were reduced to 240-4. India managed to put on a further 90 runs in the last 10 overs of their innings but three more wickets fell. Raina (9) and Dhoni (27) were both caught out whilst Ashwin (10) was run out by Mclaren. Jadeja  played an important role as he finished on 47* as India ended up on 331-7 after 50 overs.

South Africa got off to a slow start as Ingram (6) only lasted five balls before being caught after a thick edge. It was soon 31-2 as Amla (22) edged behind at the end of the third over. Both Peterson and AB De Villiers provided some stability for South Africa as they both scored their half centuries to guide them to 137-2. This important partnership was broken after Dhoni ran out Peterson (68). South Africa then lost three wickets in rapid succession as Duminy (14) was out lbw, De Villiers (70) was caught in the field and Miller (0) was run out before even facing a ball to leave them 187-6. It was then a tough task to get back in the game and got even harder as Du Plessis (30) edged into the slips. The game was pretty much settled after two quick wickets saw Kleinveldt (4) edge behind and Tsotsobe (3) bowled by Kumar, leaving South Africa on 257-9. Mclaren did his best to get South Africa back in the game with an unbeaten fifty but it was not enough as India won the match after Jadeja bowled Morkel (8) with the last ball of the match to leave the Proteas 305 all out which meant that India won by 26 runs.

Performance of the Day: Shikhar Dhawan for hitting 114 off 94 balls. This proved to be a pivotal innings for India in such a closely contested game.

French Open: Day 13 - Men's Semi-Finals

Nadal wins epic five set thriller against Djokovic to make French Open Final

Many will think that Rafael Nadal v Novak Djokovic was the true French Open Final and it did not disappoint. It took over five hours for Nadal to overcome a brilliant Djokovic as the Spaniard claimed victory, winning 9-7 in the fifth set. Both Nadal and Djokovic brought their best tennis to the match as it provided some outrageous winners and incredible rallies throughout this sensational Semi-Final. It was Nadal who settled the quickest as the seven-times winner took the opening set 6-4. Djokovic hit back to take the second 6-3 as everyone began to settle in for a very long match. Brilliance from Nadal then saw the Spaniard win the third set 6-1 as Djokovic looked to be wary of rolling over his ankle. However, in a pulsating fourth set the Serbian battled back from a break down at 4-5 to take it to a tie-break. Djokovic then showed why he is the world number one with some fantastic forehand winners helping him on his way to winning the fourth set tie-break. It was now anybody's game as both players seemed an equal match for each other. Djokovic broke the Nadal serve early on in the fifth set but Nadal, who is a true warrior on clay, broke back. Nadal has the advantage of serving first in the set which meant Djokovic had to keep serving to stay in the match. Eventually, Nadal's pressure proved too much for Djokovic who lost his serve to love as Nadal took the fifth 9-7.
After such a memorable match, David Ferrer's straight sets victory over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga was a much more sombre affair as the Frenchman could not produce the tennis that has taken him here. Ferrer, who has now made his first ever Grand Slam Final, was too much for Tsonga as the Spaniard showed a high level of consistency and grit. Tsonga looked as if the occasion was too much for him as continuous unforced errors put him out of contention. It will be a Spanish final on Sunday but Nadal will be a strong favourite to lift a record eight French Open Titles.

 

Men's Semi-Final Results:

Nadal (3) beat Djokovic (1) 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-7, 9-7
Ferrer (4) beat Tsonga (6) 6-1, 7-6, 6-2

Selected Boys' Doubles Semi-Final Result:

Edmund (GBR)/ Silva (POR) (3) beat Bonzi (FRA)/ Halys (FRA) 6-3, 6-7, (10-3)

Performance of the Day: Rafael Nadal for winning one of the best matches this year. Whoever won this match deserved this award as it was just incredible tennis.

French Open: Day 12 - Women's Semi-Finals

Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams both into the French Open Final

Maria Sharapova beat Victoria Azarenka in a close three set encounter in the first Women's semi-final. Sharapova raced to a first set lead after only conceding one game. Azarenka then hit back to tie the match at one set apiece before the rain delayed proceedings. After the rain break, it was Sharapova who showed more determination to win as she gained a double break before serving out the match.
Sharapova will meet an imperious Serena Williams in the Final. S. Williams proved their was a vast difference between her and the rest of the field as she powered to a straight sets victory within fifty minutes whilst only conceding one game to Sara Errani. Williams will be a heavy favourite after that performance to lift the title but can Sharapova cause an upset to regain her French Open crown.



Women's Semi-Final Results:

S. Williams (1) beat Errani (5) 6-0, 6-1
Sharapova (2) beat Azarenka (3) 6-1, 2-6, 6-4

Selected Boys' Singles Quarter-Final Result:

Zverev (GER) (4) beat Edmund (GBR) (5) 6-2, 5-7, 6-0

Selected Boys' Doubles Quarter-Final Result:

Edmund (GBR)/ Silva (POR) (3) beat Nishioka (JPN)/ Panta (PER) (7) 7-5, 6-4

Performance of the Day: Maria Sharapova for a gutsy win over a tough opponent in Azarenka.

England v New Zealand Third One Day International - Trent Bridge

England win final game of series after Buttler heroics

Jos Buttler hit 47* off 16 balls in an inspired last 5 overs of batting from England as they beat New Zealand by 34 runs at Trent Bridge. New Zealand take the series 2-1 but it will be England who will take confidence going into the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl. This seemed to be a good decision as England were on the back foot at 210-5 but England scored 82 runs in the last 5 overs of their innings to set a high total of 287-6. Ross Taylor hit 71 runs in reply but it was not enough as New Zealand were all out for 253.
 
         

It was a bad start for England as captain Alistair Cook (0) was dismissed early on after unsuccessfully reviewing an lbw decision. Jonathan Trott (37) and Ian Bell (82) then steadily guided England to 69-1 before Mclenagan got his second wicket of the day, catching Trott lbw. Bell and Joe Root (33) provided another fifty partnership but some poor running saw Root run out, leaving England 149-3. Bell shortly followed after being caught playing a drive as Mclenaghan took his third wicket of the day. Ravi Bopara (28) and Eoin Morgan (49) put on another fifty partnership before Bopara was caught on the boundary as England were left on 210-5. Suddenly, Morgan and Jos Buttler (47*) provided some fireworks out of nowhere as they raced to their fifty partnership from only 20 balls. The crowd became much more vocal as Buttler smashed six after six to hit 47* off 16 balls. Morgan was run out with three balls remaining but Buttler hit a further two sixes to put England in control as they finished on 287-6 after 50 overs.

Chasing 288 runs, New Zealand got off to a fast start as they raced to 39-0 after six overs. However, Broad  got his man as Ronchi (22) was caught in the field. A huge wicket fell to leave New Zealand 70-2 as Tredwell bowled Martin Guptill (38). The tourists were then left on the back foot as a further two quick wickets fell. Kane Williamson (19) was out lbw before Munro (0) edged behind for a golden duck, leaving the visitors on 97-4. It looked as if England would ease to victory as Brendan McCullum (6) edged behind whilst Franklin (7) was caught at gulley to leave New Zealand 122-6. However, the game became interesting as Ross Taylor (71) and Nathan McCullum (28) put on a fifty partnership to help the visitors to 175-6. N. McCullum was then caught in the field as the tourists tried to increase the run rate. Tim Southee (15) added some more runs before being caught in the field. New Zealand eventually found themselves needing 53 runs off 44 balls. It became very tense for England as New Zealand looked like they might get the required runs but Taylor was impressively caught on the boundary by Steven Finn. It was soon all over as Mclenaghan (4) was caught to leave New Zealand all out on 253. England will take confidence out of the match going into the ICC Champions trophy.

Performance of the Day: Jos Buttler for entertaining the crowd and proving to be the difference in this game with an outstanding 47* off 16 balls.

Performance of the Series: Martin Guptill for consistently scoring heavily with knocks of 100*, 189* and 38. Pretty much won the first two matches by himself for New Zealand and therefore the series.

French Open: Day 11 - Quarter-Finals

Djokovic to meet Nadal in Semi's whilst Sharapova digs deep to progress

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal both won their Quarter-Final matches to set up a hugely anticipated French Open Semi-Final. Djokovic played well to come through his match in straight sets to beat 12th seed Tommy Haas whilst Nadal, who looks to be getting stronger and stronger as the tournament progresses, demolished Stanislas Wawrinka in three comfortable sets. Personally, I cannot wait for this match on Friday and expect a very long five set encounter.
On the Women's half of the draw, Maria Sharapova was completely outplayed by Jelena Jankovic in first set as the Russian was humbly bageled. Sharapova then showed why she's won Grand Slams as her sheer mental strength brought her back level in the match at one set apiece. It was then Sharapova who prevailed in the deciding set as Jankovic, who has a history of faltering in big matches, lost her nerve. Sharapova will now meet Victoria Azarenka in the Semi's as the third seed battled past Maria Kirilenko in straight sets.



Men's Quarter-Final Results:

Djokovic (1) beat Haas (12) 6-3, 7-6, 7-5
Nadal (3) beat Wawrinka (12) 6-2, 6-3, 6-1

Women's Quarter-Final Results:

Sharapova (2) beat Jankovic (18) 0-6, 6-4, 6-3
Azarenka (3) beat Kirilenko (12) 7-6, 6-2

Selected Boys' Singles Third Round Result:

Edmund (GBR) (5) beat Rubin (USA) 7-5, 5-7, 6-3

Selected Boys' Doubles Second Round Result:

Edmund (GBR)/ Silva (POR) (3) beat Gomez (MEX)/ Nakagawa (JPN) 6-2, 7-5

Performance of the Day: Maria Sharapova for showing some real fighting spirit to comeback from a 0-6 first set and take the next two sets for victory - very impressive.

French Open: Day 10 - Quarter-Finals

Tsonga shocks Federer to progress into French Open Semi-Finals

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga caused a major upset as the Frenchman defeated Roger Federer in straight sets. It was looking comfortable for Federer in the opening set as he was first to break serve and take a 4-2 lead. However, Tsonga won eight out of the next nine games to take control of the match at 7-5, 3-0. Federer managed to break the Tsonga serve in both the second and third set but it was not enough to stop a dominant Tsonga. Is this Tsonga's year to win a Grand Slam? Tsonga will face an in-form David Ferrer for a place in the Final as the Spaniard eased past a spent Tommy Robredo whilst only conceding four games on his way to victory.
Meanwhile, on the women's side of the draw, Serena Williams was on the brink of defeat against her Russian opponent Svetlana Kuznetsova. Williams took the opening set in convincing style but Kutnetsova fought back in incredible fashion to level the match at one set apiece. Kuznetsova continued her heroics in the final set to take a 2-0 lead but Williams showed sheer determination to level the score at 3-3. It was then inevitable that Williams would win as she found her powerful serve once again to take her place in the Semi-Finals. Serena will now meet last year's finalist Sara Errani, who beat Agnieska Radwanska in straight sets.

                     

Men's Quarter-Final Results:

Tsonga (6) beat Federer (2) 7-5, 6-3, 6-3
Ferrer (4) beat Robredo (32) 6-2, 6-1, 6-1

Women's Quarter-Final Results:

S. Williams (1) beat Kuznetsova 6-1, 3-6, 6-3
Errani (5) beat Radwanska (4) 6-4, 7-5

Selected Boys' Doubles Round 1 Result:

Edmund (GBR)/ Silva (POR) (3) beat Chung (KOR)/ Lee (KOR) 4-6, 6-4, (13-11)

Selected Boys' Doubles Round 2 Result:

Garin (CHI)/ Jarry (CHI) (5) beat Bambridge (GBR)/ Norrie (GBR) 7-6, 6-3

Selected Girls' Doubles Round 1 Result:

Shymanovich (BLR)/ Silich (RUS) beat Dunne (GBR)/ Boulter (GBR) (5) 6-2, 2-6, (10-6)

Selected Girls' Singles Round 2 Result:

Sorribes Tormo (ESP) beat Dunne (GBR) (7) 5-7, 7-5, 6-3

Performance of the Day: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for a brilliant display of attacking tennis to defeat one of the greats in tennis - Roger Federer. Tsonga will fancy his chances against Ferrer and has a real chance of becoming the first Frenchman in thirty years to win Roland Garros.

French Open: Day 9 - Fourth Round

Nadal, Djokovic and Sharapova all progress into the Quarter-Finals

Rafael Nadal got the one birthday present he desired with a straight sets victory over Kei Nishikori. Nadal's heavy ground strokes proved too much for a battling Nishikori who could not trouble the Spaniard. Novak Djokovic lost the opening set to Philip Kohlschreiber but fought his way back into the match to win in four sets. Many pundits predicted a surprise shock as Francesca Schiavone took on Victoria Azarenka. However, it was only close for the opening six games before Azarenka won the next nine games in a row to clinch a spot in the quarter-finals. In the end, the biggest shock came in the interview after the match finished as Redfoo, who is Azrenka's famous boyfriend from LMFAO, declared that he is aiming to qualify for the US open. Maria Sharapova showed her quality to defeat a rising star in Sloane Stephens in two competitive sets as she continues to defend her title.

                 

Men's Fourth Round Results:

Djokovic (1) beat Kohlschrieber (16) 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4
Nadal (3) beat Nishikori (13) 6-4, 6-1, 6-3
Wawrinka (9) beat Gasquet (7) 6-7, 4-6, 6-4, 7-5, 8-6
Haas (12) beat Youzhny (29) 6-1, 6-1, 6-3

Women's Fourth Round Results:

Sharapova (2) beat Stephens (17) 6-4, 6-3
Azarenka (3) beat Schiavone 6-3, 6-0
Kirilenko (12) beat Mattek-Sands 7-5, 6-4
Jankovic (18) beat Hampton 6-0, 6-2

Selected Boys' Second Round Result:

Edmund (GBR) (5) beat Mousley (AUS) 6-1, 5-7, 6-3

Selected Girls' First Round Result:

Konjuh (CRO) (1) beat Boulter (GBR) 6-2, 6-4

Selected Boys' Doubles First Round Result:

Bambridge (GBR)/ Norris (GBR) beat Tatomic (ROU)/ Zheng (CHN) 6-3, 6-3

Performance of the Day: Stanislas Wawrinka for defeating Richard Gasquet and a French crowd in a five set thriller. Gasquet won the opening two sets before Wawrinka tied the match at two sets apiece. It was Gasquet who tired first though as a strong Wawrinka took advantage to grind out the final set 8-6.

England v New Zealand Second One Day International: Ageas Bowl

New Zealand win ODI series 2-0 after 86 run victory at Ageas Bowl

Martin Guptill hit 189* as New Zealand scored the fifth highest ever total in ODI's which was too much for England to chase. New Zealand's 86 run victory in the second ODI meant that they took a 2-0 series lead and consequently the series. Jonathan Trott hit an unbeaten 109* but nobody else was able to stay in and build a meaningful partnership with him which ultimately cost England the game.



New Zealand won the toss and elected to bat first on a good pitch. Three overs into the innings, Ronchi (2) was bowled by James Anderson which left the tourists 12-1. Martin Guptill (189*) and Kane Williamson (55) then provided stability as they both passed their fifties in a partnership that was worth 120 runs. Swann came into the attack to bowl Williamson, leaving New Zealand 132-2. Guptill and Taylor (60) then provided another century partnership as Guptill made his century in 111 balls whilst Taylor passed fifty. At 241-3, Taylor was caught on the boundary in an attempt to pile on the runs which meant that McCullum (40*) was able to take advantage of the good pitch. Guptill passed the 150 off 141 balls whilst putting on another century partnership with the Kiwi captain. The pair then ran riot as they hit 118 runs off 50 balls to guide New Zealand to 359-3 after 50 overs, with a run rate of 7.18, as McCullum hit 40* off 19 balls.

England needed a fast start to their innings as they chased a target of 360 runs. This was the case until the seventh over when Kyle Mills bowled Alistair Cook for 34 as England were left at 50-1. Joe Root (28) was next to be dismissed after being caught in the field. Jonathan Trott (109*) made his fifty without any trouble before seeing both Morgan (21) and Buttler (2) being dismissed in quick succession, leaving England in trouble at 169-5. The game was over when New Zealand took another three quick wickets as Woakes (13) was stumped, Bresnan (0) run out and Swann (1) bowled which put England on the brink of defeat as they quickly became 218-8 after being 212-5. Trott managed to complete a fine century amongst all the chaos and although Anderson was able to score 28 runs off 18 deliveries, he was bowled by Mclenaghan before Dernbach (2) was caught as New Zealand dominated their way to an 86 run victory and a 2-0 series lead.

Performance of the Day: Martin Guptill for his brilliant and match winning knock of 189*.

French Open: Day 8 - Fourth Round

Federer survives scare whilst Serena Williams powers through to the Quarter-Finals

Roger Federer was pushed all the way by Gilles Simon before triumphing 6-3 in the fifth set. It looked as though Federer would routinely stroll into the Quarters after winning the first set in style but Simon began to play some extraordinary tennis to take a two sets to one lead. Federer then won four games in a row to decrease the growing tension and tie the match at two sets apiece before restoring normality by taking the fifth set. It was a completely opposite story for number one seed Serena Williams as she powered through into the Quarters after only dropping four games in defeating Carla Suarez-Navarro in straight sets.

               

Men's Fourth Round Results:

Federer (2) beat Simon (15) 6-1, 4-6, 2-6, 6-2, 6-3
Ferrer (4) beat Anderson (23) 6-3, 6-1, 6-1
Tsonga (6) beat Troicki 6-3, 6-3, 6-3
Robredo (32) beat Almagro (11) 6-7, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4

Women's Fourth Round Results:

S. Williams (1) beat Vinci (15) 6-1, 6-3
Radwanska (4) beat Ivanovic (14) 6-2, 6-4
Errani (5) beat Suarez-Navarro (20) 5-7, 6-4, 6-3
Kuznetsova beat Kerber (8) 6-4, 4-6, 6-3

Selected Junior Boys' First Round Results:

Kyle Edmund (5) (GBR) beat Elias Ymer (SWE) 6-2, 6-7, 7-5
Christian Garin (CHI) beat Cameron Norrie (15) (GBR) 7-5, 6-2
Naoki Nakagawa (JPN) beat Luke Bambridge (GBR) 6-3, 4-6, 6-4

Selected Junior Girls' First Round Results:

Katy Dunne (7) (GBR) beat Adrijana Lekaj (CRO) 6-2, 6-2


Performance of the Day: Tommy Robredo for becoming only the second man ever to win after being 0-2 sets down in three consecutive matches. Almagro looked set to book a place in the Quarters but Robredo's sheer determination and stamina proves yet again that he will not be beaten without a fight.

French Open: Day 7 - Third Round

Djokovic, Nadal, Sharapova and Azarenka all progress to fourth round

Rafael Nadal came across a dangerous opponent in Fabio Fognini but was able to battle out the rallies to go through in straight sets. Everybody thought that the match of the day would be Novak Djokovic against Grigor Dimitrov who is one of the rising stars in the game. However, Djokovic calmly strolled past Dimitrov whilst only dropping seven games. Maria Sharapova avoided a scare against Zheng to progress in straight sets whilst Victoria Azarenka fought back from a set down to knock out Alize Cornet.



Selected Men's Third Round Results:

Djokovic (1) beat Dimitrov 6-2, 6-2, 6-3
Nadal (3) beat Fognini (27) 7-6, 6-4, 6-4
Gasquet (7) beat Davydenko 6-4, 6-4, 6-3
Youzhny (29) beat Tipsarevic (8) 6-4, 6-4, 6-3
Wawrinka (9) beat Janowicz (21) 6-3, 6-7, 6-3, 6-3
Haas (12)  beat Isner (19) 7-5, 7-6, 4-6, 6-7, 10-8
Nishikori (13) beat Paire (24) 6-3, 6-7, 6-4, 6-1
Kohlschreiber (16) beat Hanescu 6-0, 7-6, 6-1

Selected Women's Third Round Results:

Sharapova (2) beat Zheng 6-1, 7-5
Azarenka (3) beat Cornet (31) 4-6, 6-3, 6-1
Jankovic (18) beat Stosur (9) 3-6, 6-3, 6-4
Kirilenko (12) beat Voegele 7-6, 7-5
Schiavone beat Bartoli (13) 6-2, 6-1
Stephens (17) beat Erakovic 6-4, 6-7, 6-3

Performance of the Day: Tommy Haas who beat John Isner in an epic five sets. Haas led by two sets before Isner, who seems to always play these five set thrillers, came back to tie the match at two sets apiece. Haas was unable to convert either of his 12 match points and even saved one before winning on his 13th attempt to win 10-8 in the fifth.

England v New Zealand First One Day International: Lord's

Guptill century helps New Zealand ease to victory over England

New Zealand take a 1-0 lead over England as Martin Guptill hits 103* to guide New Zealand to their target of 228 runs in order to beat England by five wickets in the First ODI at Lord's. New Zealand won the toss and elected to field first which proved to be a pivotal moment in the match as England were unable to score heavily in weather conditions favouring the bowlers. The England batsmen continuously got in and got out as Jonathan Trott was the highest scoring batsman with 37. New Zealand then had the pleasure of batting in sunny conditions from which they eased to victory.



England looked on course for a good total as a strong start left them 45-0 after the first Powerplay of 10 overs. However, Tim Southee took two quick wickets to reduce England to 50-2 as openers Bell (18) and Cook (30) were both dismissed. Root (30) and Trott (37) then put England back on track with a 50 partnership before Root was bowled by Nathan McCullum, leaving England 117-3. A further two wickets soon fell in quick succession as Trott was caught on the boundary before Morgan (6) was caught playing a very strange shot which left England on the back foot at 126-5. It was then a case of getting as many runs as you could get as the lower order started to play some entertaining shots. Buttler (14) was caught after playing the reverse sweep before Woakes (36) was caught in the field which left England 182-7. Bresnan (25) and Swann (15) put on another 30 runs before Southee bowled Bresnan whilst Swann was caught on the last ball oft the innings as England finished on 227-9 after 50 overs.

It was a completely different start to the New Zealand innings as James Anderson took two wickets in the first over as they chased a target of 228 runs. Ronchi (0) lasted only three balls before edging to first slip before Williamson (0), lasting only two more balls, edged behind to leave New Zealand 1-2 at the end of the first over.  However, New Zealand found some stability as Guptill and Taylor both secured their fifties in comfortable style before giving New Zealand a match winning century partnership. Anderson came back into the attack to break the partnership as Taylor (54) edged into the slips, leaving New Zealand 121-3. Elliot (27) was next to go after being bowled by Swann before McCullum (5) was caught in the field which left the visitors 185-5. Guptill (103*) and Franklin (16*) were then able to guide New Zealand home as Guptill hit a four to complete his century and secure victory, beating England by five wickets.

Player of the Day: Martin Guptill for giving New Zealand stability in their innings and making a match winning contribution of 103*.

French Open: Day 6 - Second Round and Third Round

Federer, Nadal, Sharapova and S.Williams all progress

Rafael Nadal lost the opening set for the second time in a row after a slow start against Klizan. The hot favourite for the title then fought back to win in four sets. Maria Sharapova progressed to the third round after beating Bouchard in straight sets. Roger Federer battled past Julien Benneteau in three sets to make the fourth round whilst Serena Williams only dropped two games in her match against Cirstea. Plenty of French potential left in the draw as Tsonga, Gasquet and Simon all progress but a burnt out Monfils was unable to convert either of his four match points against Robredo who eventually won 6-2 in the fifth set.



Selected Men's Second Round Results:

Nadal (3) beat Klizan 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 6-3
Gasquet (7) beat Przysiezny 6-3, 6-3, 6-0
Tipsarevic (8) beat Verdasco 7-6, 6-1, 3-6, 5-7, 8-6
Wawrinka (9) beat Zeballos 6-2, 7-6, 6-4
Haas (12) beat Sock 7-6, 6-2, 7-5
Isner (19) beat Harrison 5-7, 6-7, 6-3, 6-1, 8-6

Selected Women's Second Round Results:

Sharapova (2) beat Bouchard 6-2, 6-4
Kirilenko (12) beat Barty 6-3, 6-1
Bartoli (13) beat Marino 7-6, 7-5
Schiavone beat Flipkens (21) 6-1, 4-6, 6-3

Selected Men's Third Round Results:

Federer (2) beat Benneteau (30) 6-3, 6-4, 7-5
Ferrer (4) beat Lopez 6-1, 7-5, 6-4
Tsonga (6) beat Chardy (25) 6-1, 6-2, 7-5
Troicki beat Cilic (10) 7-6, 6-4, 7-5
Almagro (11) beat Seppi (20) 7-6, 6-0, 6-4
Anderson (23) beat Raonic (14) 7-5, 7-6, 6-3
Simon (15) beat Querrey (18) 2-6, 6-3, 2-6, 7-6, 6-2
Robredo (32) beat Monfils 2-6, 6-7, 6-2, 7-6, 6-2

Selected Women's Third Round Results:

S. Williams (1) beat Cirstea (26) 6-0, 6-2
A. Radwanska (4) beat Pfizmaier 6-3, 6-4
Errani (5) beat Liscki (32) 6-0, 6-4
Kerber (8) beat Lepchenko (29) 6-4, 6-7, 6-4
Ivanovic (14) beat Razzano 6-3, 6-2
Vinci (15) beat Cetkovska 6-1, 2-6, 6-2
Suarez-Navarro (20) beat Puig 6-4, 7-5

Performance of the Day: Tommy Robredo.

This was a really tough decision as there were a range of outstanding performances on day 6 at the French Open. It began with Tipsarevic and Isner both winning their fifth set 8-6 against decent opponents in Verdasco and Harrison. Simon then came from two sets to one and a break down in the fourth to prevail against Querrey in the fifth 6-2. There were two major shocks as Troicki and Anderson both won in straight sets against Cilic and Raonic respectively. However, for sheer stamina and determination, Tommy Robredo cam back from two sets down and saved four match points to impressively defeat Gael Monfils in five set thriller.