The Open (Muirfield) Day Four: Fourth Round

Mickelson wins The Open by three shots

Final Round Leaderboard: -3 Mickelson (66), Par Stenson (70), +1 Westwood (75), Scott (72), Poulter (67)

An incredible final round of 66 saw Phil Mickelson storm to victory at Muirfield by three shots and claim his fifth major title. It was a solid opening nine holes as two birdies gave the American hope of posting a target for the leaders to surpass. However, Mickelson found some inspired golf to make four more birdies, including the 17th and 18th, on the back nine to take his tournament score to -3. In the end it was too much for everyone else who couldn't get near Mickelson's incredible score. Henrik Stenson took second place on level par after a one under round of 70. Third round leader Lee Westwood struggled with his putting and dropped four shots on his final round to finish in joint third on one over par. Ian Poulter shot an impressive 67 to claim joint third alongside Adam Scott, who could only manage 72 shots for his final round.

My Favourites: Tiger Woods trailed away again on the final day of a major after a three over par round of 74 left him joint sixth on +2. Sergio Garcia finished in joint 21st after shooting 75 and finishing on +7. Ernie Eles was one shot worse and came joint 26th after scoring 74. Bubba Watson struggled with the conditions all weekend and ended in joint 32nd place with a score of +9 after a round of 73.

My Opinion: That was simply incredible from Phil Mickelson. To shoot 66 and finish with two birdies in a row was deserving of a champion performance. Nobody else could compete with golf like that. Ian Poulter set the early target with one over par after a trying 67 but it was not enough. It shows how tough the course was set up and with the very challenging conditions that there was only one player to finish under par for the tournament. Henrik Stenson can be pleased with his efforts whilst Lee Westwood proves one again that his putting lets him down in a final round of a major. Adam Scott could not find anything magical and again misses out on The Open title.



Performance of the Day: Phil Mickelson for a miraculous round of 66 and win the title.

Performance of the Tournament: Henrik Stenson deserves this for four solid and consistent rounds of golf.

Amateur Performance of the Tournament: Matthew Fitzpatrick who finished on ten over par for the tournament. 

Lowest Round of the Day: Phil Mickelson with 66.

Lowest Round of the Tournament: 66 and -5 was scored by Zach Johnson in the first round and by Phil Mickelson in the final round.

Highest Round of the Day: 88 and +17 was scored by Scott Piercy in the second round. 

Highest overall score of the Tournament: 307 and +23 shots were taken by Sandy Lyle. 

Disappointment of the Day: Lee Westwood's putting woes. 

Disappointment of the Tournament: My two favourite players, Luke Donald and Rickie Fowler both missed the cut.

The Open (Muirfield) Day Three: Third Round

Lee Westwood takes two shot lead into Final Round

Third Round Leaderboard: -3 Westwood (71), -1 Woods (72), Mahan (68).

Lee Westwood carded a one under par round of 71 to take a two shot lead going into the final round at Muirfield. The Englishman managed to eagle to fifth hole on his way to a solid third round of golf. Tiger Woods (72) and Hunter Mahan will trail closely behind as they are two shots behind on -1 par. Woods made three birdies but it was the three bogeys which halted his progress. Mahan will be pleased with his round of 68 as the putter was red hot for the American. It was another tough day on the course for the players as only three players were under par. Adam Scott will be in the hunt on Sunday as he sits on level par for the tournament after shooting 70.

My Favourites: Lee Westwood and Tiger Woods are playing well at the top of the leaderboard which will be very interesting. Westwood may never have such a great chance to win his maiden major ever again as he holds a two shot advantage going into the final day. Tiger Woods will be right behind him and putting on all sorts of pressure. Mahan is a definite threat with his putting whilst Adam Scott now has the experience of winning a major. Phil Mickelson managed to keep his card in order with a round of 72 and is five shots back. Dustin Johnson trailed away from the leaders after a 76 whilst second round leader Jimenez got in plenty of trouble but made it home in 77.

My Opinion: I really hope Lee Westwood can hold on and win his first major. He has had plenty of chances but it has always been his putting which has let him down on the final day. Hopefully, for his sake he can put well and i'm sure he will have a great chance to win. Tiger Woods is bound to put up a fight and Hunter Mahan can be deadly with his putter. It looks like the winning score will be around even par but if someone can shoot low then who knows what could happen.



Performance of the Day: Hunter Mahan for a great round of 68 which puts him into joint second place.

Lowest Round of the Day: Hunter Mahan, Sergio Garcia and Richard Sterne all shot 68. 

Highest Round of the Day: Shiv Kapur managed 83 shots. 

Highlight of the Day: Seeing Lee Westwood at the top of the Leaderboard at the end of day. 

Disappointment of the Day: Miguel Angel Jimenez for falling away from the top with a round of 77. 

The Open (Muirfield) Day Two: Second Round

Jimenez takes one shot lead into the weekend

Second Round Leaderboard: -3 Jimenez (71), -2 Woods (71), Westwood (68), Stenson (70).

Miguel Angel Jimenez started his second round with three birdies in a row on his way to securing a one shot lead after the second round. The Spaniard dropped two shots on the back nine but it was still a round of 71. A very strong chasing pack will be looking to overhaul Jimenez in the third round as Henrik Stenson (70), Lee Westwood (68), Tiger Woods (71) and Dustin Johnson (72) are all one shot behind the leader. The weather was horrific at times whilst the course began to play even harder as balls shot through greens. This saw the cut mark at +8 as many players struggled with the tough conditions.

My Favourites: Apart from Woods and Westwood at the top of the leaderboard, there is still a strong interest from the guys I follow on the tour. Four shots off the lead are Adam Scott (72), Bubba Watson (73), Ian Poulter (71) and Phil Mickelson (74). There were some major names to miss the cut today as Luke Donald (72) and Justin Rose (77) finished two shots adrift of the cut. Rickie Fowler (76), Rory McIlroy (75) and Sir Nick Faldo (78) could not cope with the harsh conditions and have fallen early to Muirfield.

My Opinion: Amazing stuff from Jimenez who tops the leaderboard. Unfortunately for him, the chasing pack is very strong. Tiger Woods will be hungry and eager to win his first major since returning to golf whilst Lee Westwood and Henrik Stenson will be looking for their maiden major wins. Plenty of people still in the hunt even though they may be four or five shots back. As long as you keep playing par golf, you will have a chance on Sunday as the winning score may not even be below par. Disappointed by Luke Donald, Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy missing the cut. My loyalties will now have to changed to Westwood and Poulter.
I expect another really hard days golf tomorrow but if someone shoots low then they will be right up there.



Performance of the Day: Lee Westwood shooting 68 on this course was special and it puts him in second place.

Lowest Round of the Day: Lee Westwood and Charl Shwartzel both scored 68.

Highest Round of the Day: Scott Piercy struggled round in 88.

Highlight of the Day: Seeing Lee Westwood finally find some putting form.

Disappointment of the Day: My three favourite golfers all missed the cut (Donald, Fowler, McIlroy).

The Open (Muirfield) Day One: Opening Round

Zach Johnson shoots 66 to top the leaderboard

First Round Leaderboard: -5 Z. Johnson (66), -4 Cabrera Bello (67), O'Meara (67).

Zach Johnson made four birdies and an eagle to take a one shot lead at six under par after the opening round at Muirfield. A bogey at the 14th hole was the only blemish on Johnson's card but a brilliant front nine of 31 shots propelled the American into the lead. Rafael Cabrera Bello and Mark O'Meara lead the chasing pack as they both posted rounds of 67 to trail Zach Johnson by one shot. Dustin Johnson, Brandt Snedeker, Shiv Kapour and Miguel Angel Jimenez all shot a three under par round of 68. It was a solid start for Tiger Woods, who managed five birdies on his was to a round of 69 alongside Phil Mickelson. Bubba Watson managed to post a round of 70, leaving the American four shots off the lead.

Adam Scott, the Masters champion, went round in level par in his opening round whist Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter dropped a shot in their rounds of 72. Jason Day struggled through his round and finished on +2 whilst the current Open champion Ernie Els carded a round of 74. It was a tough day for Sergio Garcia, Graeme McDowell and recently crowned US Open winner Justin Rose as they all battled for a round of 75. It was a disappointing day for Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy. Fowler bogeyed his way to 78 whilst McIlroy continued to battle his poor form in a round of 79. It was not the perfect day for sir Nick Faldo but a 79 is not mean feat, having not played competitive golf for years. Sadly, Luke Donald's hopes of winning his first major took a huge blow with his round of 80 and will struggle to make the cut.

My Opinion: Zach Johnson's game is suited to the course and he played ever so well to shoot 66. Good to see Dustin Johnson near the top of the leaderboard. It will be interesting to see if he can maintain a serious challenge for the title. Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson will both be pleased with their opening rounds of 69. It leaves them in a good place looking ahead to the weekend. Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter are still in the tournament with their one over par rounds of 72. Justin Rose could not continue his brilliant US Open form into the British Open and may not even make the cut. Very saddened by my favourite players' scores. Rickie Fowler really struggled, as did Rory McIlroy. However, Luke Donald leaked shots throughout his round after shooting 80. Lots of good golf in the opening round but who can stay at the top.



Performance of the Day: Mark O' Meara deserves plenty of credit. It showed that it does not matter how old you are, you can still pose a challenge at the top of the leaderboard.

Lowest Round of the Day: Zach Johnson with 66.

Highest Scoring Round of the Day: Rhys Pugh (A) 84.

2013 Race 9 - German GP (Nurburgring): Race

Vettel wins his first ever German Grand Prix

Sebastien Vettel increased his lead at the top of the driver's championships with his first ever German (home) Grand Prix win. Lewis Hamilton got off to a slow start off the grid as both Red Bulls got past him. From then on it never looked in doubt that Vettel would ease to victory. Kimi Raikkonen took advantage of other drivers mistakes to claim second whilst Lotus team mate Grosjean filled the last podium spot. Fernando Alonso tried desperately to make up as many positions as he could but in the end fourth was a decent effort as the damage had been done in qualifying yet again. Alonso's team mate Felipe Massa only lasted three laps before spinning off track and into the gravel. Lewis Hamilton was gutted to have missed out on a podium again after sitting on pole but a poor start cost him. The Mclaren's enjoyed a better race day as Jenson Button climbed three places to sixth whilst Sergio Perez finished in eighth. Mark Webber's race was scuppered after a horror pit stop cost him valuable time. Daniel Ricciardo dropped out of the point scoring positions after a disappointing race but his qualifying form is still great.

My Opinion: Red Bull will be pleased with Vettel winning the race but really angry at the horror show that was Mark Webber's pit stop. The left rear tyre was not taken off quickly which halted progress but then the replaced wheel was not screwed in properly which soon came off down the pit lane. Lotus will be very satisfied with two drivers on the podium. Very consistent stuff as usual from Kimi. Alonso just needs a good qualifying position and i'm sure will win races. Again, the Spaniard delivers a strong race, making up so many places to finish fourth. Massa will disappointed at losing control of the car after only three laps. A shame to see Lewis in fourth but it was the slow start off the grid which ultimately cost him. Good to see the Mclaren's fortunes changing with Button and Perez scoring points. Overall, disappointed that Vettel won and Hamilton wasn't on the podium but impressed by Lotus, Alonso and Mclaren.



Race Guide: Key Moments:

Lap 1: Hamilton (3) down two places. Vettel takes the lead, Webber (2). Massa (6) passes Ricciardo (7).
Lap 2: Perez (9) passes Button (10) after overtaking three other cars.
Lap 4: Massa (6) OUT. Spins off track and forced to retire the car.
Lap 9: Webber (2) has horror pit stop. Takes ages to take tyre off and then replacement tyre falls off and hits a cameraman.
Lap 10: Vettel (4) passes Hulkenberg (5).
Lap 11: Vettel (3) passes Button (4).
Lap 14: Raikkonen (6) passes Hamilton (7).
Lap 18: Raikkonen (4) passes Hamilton again (5).
Lap 23: Bianchi OUT. Vergne OUT. Bianchi suffers engine blowup. Yellow Flag and Safety car deployed.
Lap 29: Safety car returns to the pits.
Lap 30: Webber (16) moves up two places.
Lap 36: Perez (8) passes Maldonado (9).
Lap 45: Vettel (4) passes Hamilton (5). Grosjean (5) passes Hamilton (6).
Lap 46: Hulkenberg (10) passes Rosberg (11).
Lap 50: Hamilton (8) passes Di Resta (9).
Lap 51: Hamilton (7) passes Maldonado (8). Button (5) passes Perez (6).
Lap 55: Raikkonen (2) passes Grosjean (3). Hamilton (6) passes Perez (7).
Lap 60: Hamilton (5) passes Button (6). Webber (7) passes Perez (8). Vettel wins the German Grand Prix. 

German Grand Prix Result:

1. Vettel (Red Bull) 1.41.14.711
2. Raikkonen (Lotus)
3. Grosjean (Lotus)
4. Alonso (Ferrari)
5. Hamilton (Mercedes)
6. Button (Mclaren)
7. Webber (Red Bull)
8. Perez (Mclaren)
9. Rosberg (Mercedes)
10. Hulkenberg (Sauber)

Fastest Lap: Fernando Alonso (Ferrari) with 1.33.468.

Driver's Standings:

1. Vettel (Red Bull) 157 points
2. Alonso (Ferrari) 123
3. Raikkonen (Lotus) 116
4. Hamilton (Mercedes) 99
5. Webber (Red Bull) 93

Constructor's Standings:

1. Red Bull 250 points
2. Mercedes 183
3. Ferrari 180
4. Lotus 157
5. Force India 59

Performance of the Day: Team Lotus for using a great strategy which enabled both cars to end up on the podium.

Disappointment of the Day: Lewis Hamilton not even being on the podium after starting on pole.

2013 Race 9 - German GP (Nurburgring): Qualifying

Hamilton snatches Pole position from Vettel

Lewis Hamilton pulled out a brilliant lap to take pole position for the German Grand Prix ahead of Sebastien Vettel. It was another great qualifying session for Hamilton who has now put his Mercedes on pole position in two consecutive race weekends. The Red Bulls had a solid qualifying as Vettel and Webber will be in second and third on the grid. Both the Lotus cars found some pace as Raikkonen beat Grosjean to fourth. Another great session for Daniel Ricciardo who qualified in sixth position. The young Australian has been in great form so far this season in his Toro Rosso. Felipe Massa out-qualified team-mate Fernando Alonso to qualify seventh. Jenson Button will be pleased about making the final session and top ten but will still be annoyed about not competing for pole. Both Williams were knocked out in the first session whilst Nico Rosberg, Paul Di Resta and Sergio Perez all failed to make it into the third session.

My Opinion: A great qualifying again for Hamilton who will be looking to convert his pole position into a race win. However both Red Bulls will be looking to take the win as they trail close behind. Raikkonen and Grosjean could pose a sneaky threat but will most likely be looking for podium finishes. Daniel Ricciardo has shone again in qualifying and will attract the attention of all the top manufacturers. Interesting to see Massa go faster than Alonso. It will take some more brilliant driving in the race for Alonso to make the podium again. A poor day for Williams who couldn't get either car into the second qualifying session whilst Mclaren continue to struggle. Nico Rosberg and Paul Di Resta will be both be very disappointed at being knocked out in the second qualifying session. My prediction for the podium in the race is Vettel, Hamilton and Raikkonen.



Qualifying Result and Starting Grid: 

1. Hamilton (Mercedes) 1.29.358
2. Vettel (Red Bull)
3. Webber (Red Bull)
4. Raikkonen (Lotus)
5. Grosjean (Lotus)
6. Ricciardo (Toro Rosso)
7. Massa (Ferrari)
8. Alonso (Ferrari)
9. Button (Mclaren)
10. Hulkenberg (Sauber)

Performance of the Day: Lewis Hamilton really deserves this. A brilliant lap stole pole from Vettel.

Disappointment of the Day: Seeing both Williams getting knocked out in the first qualifying session.

2013 Race 8 - British GP (Silverstone): Race

Nico Rosberg Wins the British Grand Prix

Nico Rosberg took advantage of Sebastien Vettel's gearbox trouble to claim victory at the British Grand Prix. It looked as it Vettel would stroll to the finish first after overtaking Rosberg early on and passing Hamilton after his rear tyre puncture. However, Vettel had problems of his own after his gearbox failed on lap 41, forcing the German to retire his car. Rosberg then took the lead and held on to win ahead of Mark Webber and Fernando Alonso. A brilliant race from Alonso saw his Ferrari climb six places onto the podium whilst team mate Felipe Massa climbed five places into sixth after spinning off track early on in the race. Lewis Hamilton, who started on pole, suffered a rear tyre puncture and dropped down into fourth. Kimi Raikkonen finished in fifth place after climbing three places. Vettel's inability to score any points meant that his lead decreased from 36 to 21 points ahead of Alonso in the driver's championship.

My Opinion: A great day for Nico Rosberg who drove brilliantly throughout after losing an early place to Vettel and claim victory. I was pleased to see Vettel struggle today, forcing him to retire the car after leading the race comfortably. It enables everyone to catch him up in the driver's standings anyway. Shame to see Hamilton drop off the podium. He was unlucky that his rear tyre suffered a puncture but these things happen. Amazing drive from Alonso to make third place. Overtake after Overtake enabled him to climb six places - if only he could do better in qualifying. Another bad race for Mclaren saw Perez suffer a tyre blowout and Button only manage 13th place. Overall, a very entertaining Grand Prix.



Race Guide: Key Moments:

Lap 1: Vettel (2) passes Rosberg (3). Alonso (9) passes Button (10). Webber drops to 15th place.
Lap 2: Alonso (8) passes Grosjean (9).
Lap 3: Webber (12) passes Hulkenberg (13).
Lap 5: Di Resta (16) passes Maldonado (17). Perez (10) passes Button (11).
Lap 8: Webber (11) passes Button (12). Hamilton suffers rear tyre damage.
Lap 10: Massa spins off track after a rear tyre puncture.
Lap 12: Grosjean (7) passes Raikkonen (8). Alonso (8) passes Raikkonen (9).
Lap 13: Alonso (5) passes Vergne (6).
Lap 14: Vergne suffers a rear tyre failure. Raikkonen (5) passes Grosjean (6).
Lap 16: Safety car deployed to clear tyre debris on track.
Lap 21: Safety car returns to pit lane. Webber (8) passes Perez (9).
Lap 24: Hamilton (13) passes Gutierrez (14).
Lap 25: Massa (16) passes Bottas (17).
Lap 28: Ricciardo (6) passes Grosjean (7).
Lap 29: Webber (7) passes Grosjean (8).
Lap 33: Raikkonen (6) and Alonso (7) pass Hamilton (8).
Lap 35: Vergne OUT.
Lap 37: Di Resta (11) passes Hamilton (12) .
Lap 38: Hamilton (11) passes Di Resta (12).
Lap 41: Vettel OUT, retires car after gearbox trouble. Rosberg takes the lead.
Lap 42: Safety car deployed to move Vettel's car off track.
Lap 45: Safety car returns to the pits.
Lap 46: Webber (4) passes Ricciardo (5). Alonso (7) passes Perez (8). Perez OUT.
Lap 47: Alonso (5) and Hamilton (6) pass Gutierrez (7).
Lap 48: Webber (3) passes Raikkonen (4). Alonso (4) passes Sutil (5).
Lap 49: Hamilton (5) passes Sutil (6).
Lap 50: Alonso (3) passes Raikkonen (4).
Lap 51: Hamilton (4) passes Raikkonen (5). Massa (6) passes Sutil (7).
Lap 52: Grosjean OUT. Rosberg wins the Grand Prix.

British Grand Prix Result:

1. Rosberg (Mercedes) 1.32.59.456
2. Webber (Red Bull)
3. Alonso (Ferrari)
4. Hamilton (Mercedes)
5. Raikkonen (Lotus)
6. Massa (Ferrari)
7. Sutil (Force India)
8. Ricciardo (Toro Rosso)
9. Di Resta (Force India)
10. Hulkenberg (Sauber)

Driver's Standings: 

1. Vettel (Red Bull) 132 points
2. Alonso (Ferrari) 111
3. Raikkonen (Lotus) 98
4. Hamilton (Mercedes) 89
5. Webber (Red Bull) 87

Constructor's Standings:

1. Red Bull 219 points
2. Mercedes 171
3. Ferrari 168

Performance of the Day: Fernando Alonso for climbing six places and grabbing a podium place. Amazing.

Disappointment of the Day: It would normally be Vettel retiring after 41 laps but that actually pleased me. Instead it was Jenson Button for only coming home in 13th place, having dropped three placed from the start. Not good for him, Mclaren or fans like me.









   

2013 Race 8 - British GP: Qualifying

Hamilton claims pole position as Mercedes dominate

Lewis Hamilton beat Mercedes team mate Nico Rosberg to pole position as Mercedes dominated the qualifying sessions ahead of the British Grand Prix. The Red Bulls filled up the second row as Sebastien Vettel sits in front of Mark Webber. Force India enjoyed a brilliant qualifying result as Paul Di Resta put his car fifth on the grid whilst Adrian Sutil will start in seventh. A brilliant lap from Daniel Ricciardo meant that his Toro Rosso will start in sixth place. Lotus will take up the back order of the top ten with Grosjean beating Raikkonen to 8th on the grid. Fernando Alonso could not find any pace in his Ferrari in the third qualifying session and will start back in tenth place. It was another bad qualifying session for Mclaren as both cars failed to make it into the pole position shoot out.

My Opinion: Great to see Lewis Hamilton on pole position for his home Grand Prix. Mercedes really did well today with both cars on the front row and will be looking to stay ahead of the Red Bulls in the race. Sebastien Vettel will be looking for a quick start off the grid to get past one or both Mercedes after qualifying in third place. Brilliant laps from both Paul Di Resta and Daniel Ricciardo who will both be looking to capitalise and score some heavy points. Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso will be disappointed with their qualifying results as they are too far back to compete for the win. Disappointing to see both Mclaren's knocked out in the second qualifying session. They just can't seem to find any raw pace from their cars lately.



Qualifying Result and Starting Grid for British GP:

(1) Hamilton (Mercedes) 1.29.607
(2) Rosberg (Mercedes)
(3) Vettel (Red Bull)
(4) Webber (Red Bull)
(5) Di Resta (Force India)
(6) Ricciardo (Toro Rosso)
(7) Sutil (Force India)
(8) Grosjean (Lotus)
(9) Raikkonen (Lotus)
(10) Alonso (Ferrari)

Performance of the Day: Paul Di Resta for a stunning lap to qualify fifth on the starting grid in his Force India.

Disappointment of the Day: Sergio Perez for only managing to qualify in 14th position in his Mclaren.

Wimbledon: Men's Final (Day 13)

Andy Murray ends 77 year wait for a British Wimbledon champion

Some thought that this day may never come but Andy Murray has become the first British men's singles Wimbledon champion, 77 years after Fred Perry. Murray overcame world number one Novak Djokovic in straight sets to claim his first ever Wimbledon title and second major trophy. Djokovic looked tired throughout the match and Murray took advantage to outplay the number one seed. Murray broke the Djokovic serve in the first set and it was enough to take a one set lead. The second set was much closer but Murray held on to a break of serve to take a two set lead. Everyone was nervous and excited about what this third set might bring but Djokovic battled back to break the Murray serve early on. In classic Murray style, he got the break back soon after. Murray then broke again to lead 5-4 and had his chance to serve for the Wimbledon title. It was a brilliant service game and Murray held to win Wimbledon.

Number one seeds in the mixed doubles, Soares and Raymond defeated Nestor and Mladenovic in three sets to win the mixed doubles title. Italian Quinzi, the sixth seed in the boys' draw, beat Chung in straight sets to win the boys' singles title. Krejcikova and Siriakova won the girls' doubles title after beating Kalinnia and Shymanovich. Australian doubles pair Kakkinatius and Kyrgios won the boys' doubles title after defeating Couacaud and Napolitano.

My Opinion: What a great day for Andy Murray and British tennis. A great display from both players but Murray deserved to come out on top. It was obvious that Djokovic was exhausted after his victory over Del Potro in the semi finals but Murray still had to beat him. With Federer progressively weakening on the tour, Murray now leaps into the top three players in the world with Djokovic and Nadal.



Men's Singles Final Result:

(2) Murray beat (1) Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 6-4.

Mixed Doubles Final Result:

(1) Soares/Raymond beat (8) Nestor/Mladenovic 5-7, 6-2, 8-6.

Boys' Singles Final Result:

(6) Quinzi beat Chung 7-5, 7-6.

Boys' Doubles Final Result:

Kakkinatius/Kyrgios beat Couacaud/Napolitano 6-2, 6-3.

Girls' Doubles Final Result:

(1) Krejcikova/Simakova beat (8) Kalinnia/Shymanovich 6-3, 6-1.

Men's Performance of the Tournament: Jerzy Janowicz, the 24th seed from Poland, served his way to the semi finals before losing to Andy Murray. A great effort from the young Pole.

Shock of the Tournament: Roger Federer losing to Stakhovsky in the second round in four sets. Stakhovsky served and volleyed like a God and simply outplayed the great Roger Federer.

Match of the Tournament: Novak Djokovic against Juan Martin Del Potro was one of the greatest matches ever played on centre court and in tennis history. A five set thriller with the standard of tennis never dropping.

Wimbledon: Women's Final (Day 12)

Marion Bartoli wins the women's Wimbledon title

15th seed Marion Bartoli defeated Sabine Lisicki to claim her first ever Wimbledon title. The occasion seemed too much for Lisicki in the first set as Bartoli dominated and strolled to a one set lead with the concession of only one game. It was more of the same in the second set as Bartoli kept pummelling forehand and backhand winners past the heartbroken German. At 4-1 down, Lisicki came close to tears as she couldn't find her game. After pumping herself up and letting go, Lisicki found some much needed timing to battle back into the set. However, Bartoli was playing the game of her life and held her serve brilliantly to win her first Wimbledon with a straight sets victory.

After losing the first set, Mike and Bob Bryan won yet another major title in their illustrious career, beating Dodig and Melo in four sets. Hsieh and Peng won the women's doubles title after defeating Barty and Dellaqua in straight sets. In the girls' singles final, number one seed Bencic came from a set down to beat American Townsend in three sets. Kyle Edmund and his partner Silva were beaten in the boys' doubles final by Couacaud and Napolitano in straight sets.

My Opinion: I never expected Marion Bartoli to win Wimbledon and I never expected Sabine Lisicki to crumble under the pressure so immensely. Lisicki couldn't find a serve or her game for most of the match and paid a heavy price for it. Such a shame for her after beating so many great players on her way to the final. However, Marion Bartoli played ever so well. She kept her cool throughout the match and executed her game perfectly. It seems strange that a player who uses both a double handed backhand and forehand can win Wimbledon but she has proved many people, including myself wrong. A fantastic spectacle for women's tennis this year at Wimbledon with shocks, spirit and great tennis.




   
Women's Singles Final Result:

(15) Bartoli beat (23) Lisicki 6-1, 6-4.

Men's Doubles Final Result:

(1) Bryan/Bryan beat (12) Dodig/Melo 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.

Women's Doubles Final Result:

(8) Hsieh/Peng beat (12) Barty/Dellaqua 7-6, 6-1.

Girls' Singles Final Result:

(1) Bencic beat (5) Townsend 4-6, 6-1, 6-4.

Boys' Doubles Final Result:

Couacaud/Napolitano beat (1) Edmund/Silva 6-4, 7-6.

Women's Performance of the Tournament: It looked certain to be Lisicki but Marion Bartoli stole the show and thoroughly deserves this accolade.

Shock of the Tournament: Sabine Lisicki defeating Serena Williams in three sets in the fourth round.

Match of the Tournament: Plenty of contenders for this but Lisicki beating Serena was quite an incredible comeback, let alone achievement.

Wimbledon: Men's Semi-Finals (Day 11)

Murray to meet Djokovic in Wimbledon Final

Andy Murray overcame a tricky encounter with the big serving Jerzy Janowicz to set up a highly anticipated Final with Novak Djokovic. Janowicz and Murray traded heavy blows throughout the opening set but it was the big Pole who took the lead after winning the first set tie-break. The gutsy Brit came back strongly in the second set, breaking the Janowicz serve before holding out to level the match. Murray continued to pull off his winning strategy to take a 2-1 set lead before the darkness meant the roof had to be closed. The small break didn't affect Murray's momentum and the second seed prevailed in the fourth set to reach a consecutive Wimbledon final.

His opponent will be Novak Djokovic, who beat Juan Martin Del Potro in arguably one of the greatest tennis matches ever seen on grass. It was the world number one who took the opening set before the Argentine levelled the match. Djokovic held his nerve to take the third set tie-break before Del Potro miraculously came back from the brink of defeat in the fourth set tie-break to take the match the full distance. After numerous hours and four sets of magical tennis, Djokovic managed to break the Del Potro serve and hold out for a spectacular five set epic win and a place in the final.

My Opinion: A brilliant display of how to return a massive serve from Andy Murray against Jerzy Janowicz. The match was looking in favour of the big Pole after the first set but Murray managed to get the ball back into play in the second set and overpowered Janowicz from the back of the court. Djokovic and Del Potro played one of the greatest ever matches you will see on a tennis court today. Sheer brilliance. Both players at the top of their game and it was only just that the game was won in a fifth set. Del Potro pulled out some much needed willpower in the fourth set tie-break to take it into the fifth set but Djokovic is one hard man to beat over the long distance. The match will have taken so much out of Djokovic that Murray really does have a real opportunity to end the wait for a British men's winner since Fred Perry.



Men's Singles Semi Final Results:

(1) Djokovic beat (8) Del Potro 7-5, 4-6, 7-6, 6-7, 6-3.
(2) Murray beat (24) Janowicz 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, 6-3.

Boys' Singles Semi Final Selected Result:

(6) Quinzi beat (5) Edmund 6-4, 6-4.

Boys' Doubles Quarter Final Selected Result:

(1) Edmund/Silva beat (6) Greens/Rubin 7-6, 6-3.

Men's Performance of the Day: This was a really tough choice - Murray for a great display of returning the serve, Del Potro for one of his greatest matches ever or Djokovic for winning one of the greatest matches ever. In the end it has to be Novak Djokovic for simply some of the greatest tennis ever played on centre court.




 

Wimbledon: Women's Semi-Finals (Day 10)

Bartoli and Lisicki reach Wimbledon Final

Marion Bartoli and Sabine Lisicki are set for a showdown as they both reach their first ever Wimbledon Final. The 15th seed roared past a disappointing Flipkens performance for the loss of only three games. Bartoli took the first set in convincing style and never looked back on her way to reaching a maiden Wimbledon Final. Flipkens looked to be struggling with an injury and never made her presence felt throughout the match. Sabine Lisicki, who beat Serena Williams, took another high profile scalp as the German defeated fourth seed Radwanska in a three set epic. It was Lisicki who started the strongest as her serve was too hot to handle for the Pole, eventually taking the first set 6-4. A determined Radwanska hit back in the second set and levelled the match at one set apiece. In a very tense deciding set, both players battled through their service games as neither women wanted to lose out on a first Wimbledon Final. However, it was Lisicki who managed to find some inspiration and broke the Radwanska serve to win 9-7 in the third set.

My Opinion: On a day when nobody was certain or guaranteed a place in the Wimbledon Final, nerves were high. Marion Bartoli literally obliterated Flipkens in the opening match. Flipkens couldn't find her game at all and looked no match for a strong Bartoli. It will give Bartoli great confidence going into the Final after an easy win like that. What a match the second game was. Lisicki pulling through after an epic tussle with Radwanska. It is turning out to be a great tournament for Lisicki who has beaten so many great players on her way to the final. Her big serve won her the match against Radwanska today. In the rallies it seemed as though Radwanska held the edge but Lisicki played so well to convert that third set. As it is both the finalists maiden Wimbledon Final, who knows what will happen but my vote of confidence lies in Lisicki. If that serve comes out at full throttle then there can only be one winner.



Women's Singles Semi Final Results:

(23) Lisicki beat (4) Radwanska 6-4, 2-6, 9-7.
(15) Bartoli beat (20) Flipkens 6-1, 6-2.

Boys' Singles Quarter Final Selected Result:

(5) Edmund beat Kozlov 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.

Boys' Doubles Second Round Selected Results:

(1) Edmund/Silva beat Marterer/Miedler 6-4, 6-3.
Couacaud/Napololino beat Cash/Sapwell 7-6, 7-6.

Girls Doubles Second Round Selected Result:

(4) Gonzalez/Zhao beat Dart/Rush 7-6, 6-7, 6-1.

Women's Performance of the Day: Sabine Lisicki for a brilliant win against Radwanska.

Wimbledon: Men's Quarter-Finals (Day 9)

Andy Murray wins five set thriller to reach Semi-Finals

Andy Murray pulled off an incredible comeback to defeat the dangerous Fernando Verdasco in five sets. It was Verdasco who got off to a fast start, taking advantage of some defensive play from Murray to take a one set lead. The crowd were left in shock after Verdasco broke the Murray serve again and took a 2-0 set lead. The Brit managed to dig deep and claw a quick set back before brilliantly breaking the Verdasco serve and level the match at two sets apiece. In a cultivating fifth set, the crowd roared Murray onto victory as the second seed took a vital break of serve at 6-5 and hold out for a place in the Semi Finals. Murray will now face Jerzy Janowicz after the big Pole defeated fellow countryman Kubot in straight sets.

Novak Djokovic booked his place in the last four after a troublesome quarter final against big hitting Tomas Berdych. The number one seed took the first set after winning the tie-break but Berdych took a 4-0 lead in the second set. Amazingly, Djokovic came straight back to 4-4 and broke again to take a 2-0 set lead. A single break of the Berdych serve in the third set was enough for Djokovic to seal victory in straight sets. Del Potro will face the number one seed in the semi finals after surviving an injury scare to defeat David Ferrer in three sets. Del Potro fell awkwardly onto his already dodgy knee early in the first set but after some treatment from the physio and doctor was able to carry on. Some sublime hitting of the tennis ball from Del Potro was simply too much for Ferrer to handle as the big Argentine marched on into the last four.

My Opinion: I thought Murray was gone after watching the first two sets against Verdasco. The Spaniards serve was big and fast whilst Murray seemed to be on the back foot for too much of the rallies. Thankfully, the real Murray came out and we saw a complete turnaround. It was still very tense going into the fifth set but you would always fancy Murray in those gritty situations. Janowicz will pose a huge problem in the semi final for Murray with his monster serve but if Murray can get the ball back into play then expect Murray to make the Final again. Djokovic battled very well against a strong hitting Berdych and the scoreline doesn't reflect fairly on Tomas. Three sets to one would have been a better reflection on the match as Berdych couldn't convert at the end of either set. If Del Potro plays anywhere near the high standard he pulled out today then expect a memorable match against Novak in the semi's.



Men's Quarter Final Results:

(1) Djokovic beat (7) Berdych 7-6, 6-4, 6-3.
(2) Murray beat Verdasco 4-6, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4, 7-5.
(8) Del Potro beat (4) Ferrer 6-2, 6-4, 7-6.
(24) Janowicz beat Kubot 7-5, 6-4, 6-4.

Boys' Singles Third Round Selected Results:

(5) Edmund beat O'Mara 6-3, 6-2.

Boys' Doubles First Round Selected Results:

(1) Edmund/Silva beat Windahl/Ymer 7-5, 4-6, 6-3.
Baldi/Donati beat Coric/O'Mara 6-7, 6-4, 6-2.
Djere/Redlicki beat Malik/Ridout 7-6, 6-2.
Janvier/Majchreak beat Bambridge/Norrie 6-1, 7-5.
Marterer/Miedler beat Butler/Harris 6-4, 6-4.
Cash/Sapwell beat Kozlov/Papa 6-7, 6-4, 6-4.

Girls' Doubles First Round Selected Results:

(1) Krejcikova/Siniakova beat Boulter/Wallace 6-0, 6-0.
(2) Bencic/Uberalova beat Christie/Taylor 6-1, 7-5.
Alves/Tomic beat Brogan/Lumsden 6-4, 6-7, 6-0.

Men's Performance of the Day: Andy Murray for quite a magnificent comeback to defeat Fernando Verdasco in an epic five set thriller.

Wimbledon: Women's Quarter-Finals (Day 8)

Radwanska battles into the Semi-Finals

Agnieska Radwanska came through a very tough encounter with sixth seed Na Li to set up a semi final meeting with Sabine Lisicki. In a closely contested opening set, the highest seed left in the women's draw took it after a tie-break. Nal Li hit back in the second set after holding onto a break of serve. It was Radwanska who held the edge in the deciding set as the Pole won it 6-2. Sabine Lisicki continued her fine form to blast past Kai Kanepi in straight sets, winning 6-3 twice.

Petra Kvitova was shocked by Belgium's Kristen Flipkens in three entertaining sets. The eighth seed took the first set after holding onto a break of serve before Flipkens levelled the match at one set apiece. It was Flipkens who held her nerve to break the Kvitova serve and make her first ever Wimbledon semi final. She will meet Marion Bartoli for a place in the final after the Frenchwoman impressively defeated Sloane Stephens in straight sets.

My Opinion: A really interesting days play on women's quarter finals day. Radwanska looks to have her best ever chance of winning a major title now after beating the second highest seed in Na Li and the departure of Petra Kvitova. Sabine Lisicki will be looking to win a maiden major title after playing some inspired tennis. There is even a chance that Flipkens or Bartoli will win a first major title as one of them will be playing in the final. I would fancy Radwanska to do the business as someone will have to play exceptionally well to defeat the fourth seed.



Women's Quarter Final Results:

(4) Radwanska beat (6) Li Na 7-6, 4-6, 6-2.
(20) Flipkens beat (8) Kvitova 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.
(15) Bartoli beat (17) Stephens 6-4, 7-5.
(23) Lisicki beat Kanepi 6-3, 6-3.

Mixed Doubles Second Round Selected Result:

(8) Nestor/Mladenovic beat Inglot/Konta 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.

Boys Singles Second Round Selected Results:

(3) Zverev beat Cash 6-4, 7-6.
(5) Edmund beat Nishioka 6-3, 6-1.
(7) Garin beat Bambridge 6-4, 6-4.
(8) Cachin beat O'Mara 7-6, 6-2.
(9) Baldi beat Harris 6-1, 7-6.

Girls Singles Second Round Selected Results:

(2) Konjuh beat Dart 6-1, 7-6.
(6) Mertens beat Boulter 6-3, 3-6, 6-1.
(11) Kennel beat Rush 7-6, 7-5.

Boys Doubles First Round Result:

(6) Geens/Rubin beat Ashley/Sendegeya 6-3, 6-3.

Girls Doubles First Round Selected Results:

Brogan/Lumsden beat (7) Dunne/Komardina 6-2, 3-6, 6-3.
(8) Kalimina/Shymanovich beat Asghar/Horn 6-2, 6-3.
Dart/Rush beat Mihulskyte/Parazinshaite 6-4, 6-4.

Women's Performance of the Day: Flipkens for fighting back to defeat previous Wimbledon champion Kvitova in three sets.

Wimbledon: Fourth Round (Day 7)

Murray through to Quarters but Robson bows out

Andy Murray continued his fine form to beat Mikhail Youzhny in straight sets. It was a close contest in the first two sets but Murray held the edge over Youzhny in the key points of the match to take a two set lead. Murray relaxed in the third set and steamed past the Russian to take the third set 6-1 and a place in the Quarter Finals. It was a disappointing day for Laura Robson as the young Brit was defeated by Kai Kanepi. It seemed as though Robson was going to take both sets but Kanepi fought back twice to seal a hard thought encounter.

The biggest upset of the day came when Sabine Lisicki outplayed Serena Williams to knock out the hot favourite in three sets. Lisicki got off to a fast start, taking the opening set 6-2 but the number one seed hit back in the second to level the match. In a tense final set, Lisicki managed to break the Williams serve and hold her own to shock centre court, Serena herself and the world of tennis. Novak Djokovic overcame what could have been a tough match in stylish fashion, defeating Tommy Haas in three straightforward sets.

My Opinion: Really glad to see Andy Murray come through nicely against Youzhny. It will be a much tougher test against Fernando Verdasco in the Quarter Finas though. A real shame to see Laura Robson go out in that fashion. After playing so well the previous week and taking leads into both sets will be hard to take. Credit must go to Kanepi for fighting back so well. Hugely shocked that Serena is out. Lisicki can match Serena on serve but after being down 4-2 in the final set and come back to win against Serena takes something verging on miraculous. The Women's draw has been blown completely wide open this year with the top three now all out going into the Quarter Finals.



Men's Fourth Round Selected Results:

(1) Djokovic beat (13) Haas 6-1, 6-4, 7-6.
(2) Murray beat (20) Youzhny 6-4, 7-6, 6-1.
(4) Ferrer beat Dodig 6-7, 7-6, 6-1, 6-1.
(7) Berdych beat Tomic 7-6, 6-7, 6-4, 6-4.
(8) Del Potro beat (23) Seppi 6-4, 7-6, 6-3.

Women's Fourth Round Results:

(23) Lisicki beat (1) Williams 6-2, 1-6, 6-4.
(4) Radwanska beat Pironkova 4-6, 6-3, 6-3.
(6) Na Li beat (11) Vinci 6-2, 6-0.
(8) Kvitova beat (19) Suarez-Navarro 7-6, 6-3.
(15) Bartoli beat Knapp 6-2, 6-3.
(17) Stephens beat Puig 4-6, 7-5, 6-1.
(20) Flipkens beat Pennetta 7-6, 6-3.

Men's Doubles Third Round Selected Results:

(1) Bryan/Bryan beat (16) Inglot/Huey 7-5, 6-3, 7-6.
(6) Linstedt/Nestor beat (9) Fleming/Marray 7-6, 7-5, 6-3.

Mixed Doubles First and Second Round Selected Results:

(14) Marrero/Date-Krumm beat Marray/Watson 2-6, 6-3, 6-3.
Polasek/Husarova beat Fleming/Robson 6-7, 6-2, 6-4.
Rojer/Dushevina beat Murray/Hsieh 6-7, 6-3, 6-4.
Nielsen/Arvidsson beat Edmund/Bouchard 7-5, 6-4.

Boys' Singles First Round Selected Results:

(1) Krygios beat Hoyt 6-4, 6-3.
(2) Milojevic beat Malik 6-4, 6-2.
(5) Edmund beat Kim 6-4, 6-3.
Harris beat Galleguilos 6-7, 6-3, 6-4.
Kozlov beat Sapwell 6-3, 6-3.
Trongcharoenchaikel beat Colautti 7-6, 5-7, 6-3.
Windahl beat Ashley 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.
Cash beat Bourchier 6-4, 6-2.
O'Mara beat Janvier 7-6, 5-7, 9-7.

Girls' Singles First Round Selected Results:

(1) Bencic beat Christie 6-1, 6-1.
(4) Krejcikova beat Taylor 6-1, 6-1.
Xu beat Horn 6-0, 7-5.
Uberalova beat Lumsden 4-6, 6-3, 4-1 Ret.
Dart beat Ostapenko 6-4, 7-6.

Men's Performance of the Day: Tomas Berdych for defeating an in form Bernard Tomic in four tight sets.

Women's Performance of the Day: Sabine Lisicki for pulling off a miracle to beat Serena Williams.

Wimbledon: Third Round (Day 6)

Laura Robson through to the Fourth Round at Wimbledon

Laura Robson overcame a nervous start to battle into the second week of Wimbledon for the first time. Erakovic took advantage of a slow start from Robson, taking the first set 6-1. The Kiwi then went a break up in the second set and even served for the match but Robson fed off the supportive crowd to break back. The young Brit went on to win the second set 7-5 to level the match and with the momentum in her favour, Robson held onto a break of serve to progress into the fourth round. Serena Williams had no trouble in defeating Date-Krumm whilst Sabine Lisicki shocked Sam Stosur to come back from a set down. Kvitova needed three sets to win against Makarova, Radwanska similarly needed a third to knock out Madison Keys and Na Li won an epic encounter against Zakopalova, winning 8-6 in the final set.

Novak Djokovic took little time to defeat Jeremy Chardy in straight sets whilst Tommy Haas overcame the dangerous Feliciano Lopez in four tight sets. David Ferrer came through a five set thriller against Dolgopolov, taking the fourth and fifth set in quick succession. Australian Bernard Tomic played brilliantly on centre court to beat Richard Gasquet in four highly competitive sets and Andreas Seppi managed to knock out Kei Nishikori in another five set epic.

My Opinion: Djokovic really made the game look so easy in his victory over Chardy. Only two unforced errors and returning the Chardy serve for fun made Novak look devastating. Haas came through a dangerous match, playing well to beat Lopez on grass. David Ferrer and Andreas Seppi deserve plenty of credit for coming back from two sets down against very good opponents. Bernard Tomic played some majestic tennis to defeat a solid Gasquet performance. Laura Robson thankfully managed to find some inspiration to come back from certain defeat. Erakovic was serving very well whilst Robson looked tense and nervous. The crowd played a vital role in Robson's victory as she fed off the support. No surprise that Serena smashed past Date-Krumm. Impressive stuff from Radwanska and Kvitova to win their mathces in three sets. Even better from Na Li to progress after winning 8-6 in the third against Zakopalova. Sabine Lisicki has a habit of beating players seeded higher than her in major tournaments and this time Stosur was on the receiving end. A great first week of Wimbledon with plenty of drama and shocks.



Men's Third Round Selected Results:

(1) Djokovic beat (28) Chardy 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.
(4) Ferrer beat (26) Dolgopolov 6-7, 7-6, 2-6, 6-1, 6-2.
 (7) Berdych beat (27) Anderson 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-5.
(8) Del Potro beat Zemlja 7-5, 7-6, 6-0.
Tomic beat (9) Gasquet 7-6, 5-7, 7-5, 7-6.
(23) Seppi beat (12) Nishikori 3-6, 6-2, 6-7, 6-1, 6-4.
(13) Haas beat Lopez 4-6, 6-2, 7-5, 6-4.
(20) Youzhny beat Troicki 6-3, 6-4, 7-5.

Women's Third Round Selected Results:

(1) Williams beat Date-Krumm 6-2, 6-0.
(4) Radwanska beat Keys 7-5, 4-6, 6-3.
(6) Na Li beat Zakopalova 4-6, 0-6, 8-6.
(8) Kvitova beat (25) Makarova 6-3, 2-6, 6-3.
(11) Vinci beat (18) Cibulkova 6-1, 6-4.
(25) Lisicki beat (14) Stosur 4-6, 6-2, 6-1.
(17) Stephens beat Cetkovska 7-6, 0-6, 6-4.
Robson beat Erakovic 1-6, 7-5, 6-3.

Men's Doubles First and Second Round Selected Results:

(4) Paes/Stepanek beat Delgado/Ebden 6-4, 6-4, 6-3.
(5) Qureshi/Rojer beat Malisse/Skupski 6-3, 6-7, 6-3, 6-7, 8-6.
(9) Fleming/Marray beat Cermak/Mertinak 6-3, 6-4, 7-6.
(16) Inglot/Huey beat Begemann/Emmrich 6-3, 6-7, 7-5, 7-6.
Blake/Melzer beat Murray/Peers 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 14-12.

Ladies Doubles Second Round Selected Results:

(7) Groenfeld/Peschke beat Raymond/Robson 6-4, 6-4.
Marray/Watson beat Haase/Rosolska 6-3, 7-5.

Mixed Doubles First Round Selected Results:

Inglot/Konta beat Almagro/Torro-Flor 4-6, 6-3, 19-17.
Fognini/Pennetta beat Delgado/Moore 7-6, 6-3.

Boys' Singles First Round Selected Results:

(4) Djere beat Norrie 6-3, 2-6, 6-3.
(6) Quinzi beat Butler 6-1, 6-1.
Bambridge beat Rubin 3-6, 6-4, 9-7.
Mousley beat Sendegeya 6-2, 6-4.

Girls' Singles First Round Selected Results:

(7) Dunne beat Ducu 6-2, 6-2.
(8) Hsu beat Brogan 6-3, 6-4.
Rosca beat Wallace 6-7, 6-2, 6-1.
Rush beat Voga 7-5, 4-6, 6-4.
Boulter beat Lekaj 6-3, 6-3.

Men's Performance of the Day: Bernard Tomic for some brilliant tennis to defeat Gasquet in four sets.

Women's Performance of the Day: Laura Robson for fighting back from the brink of defeat to win in three sets.