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.

Wimbledon: Third Round (Day 5)

Murray and Robson both victorious

On a rain affected day at Wimbledon, the home crowd at least had something to cheer as both Andy Murray and Laura Robson progressed into the fourth and third round respectively. Murray overcame Tommy Robredo in three comfortable sets as the Olympic champion had too much power from the ground strokes for the Spaniard. Laura Robson handled the pressure brilliantly on her way to victory over Duque-Marino. The gutsy young Brit prevailed in two sets after smashing her opponent out 6-1 in the second set. David Ferrer and Tommy Haas both completed their matches during the rain hit day whilst Jerzy Janowicz played the match of his life to knock out Nicolas Almagro. The big pole continuously hit serves at around 140mph on his way to claiming a straight sets win over the shell shocked 15th seed. Marion Bartoli progressed into the fourth round with a straight sets win over Giorgi but the real surprise of the day came when Kai Kanepi brilliantly came from behind to defeat seventh seed Angelique Kerber. The German looked certain to win the match in the second set tie-break but Kanepi found some inspired tennis to come back and eventually claim the third set 6-3.

My Opinion: A great day for British tennis as we have a Man and Woman in the third round for the first time in years. Very solid performance from Andy Murray against a wily player in Robredo. Laura Robson handled the pressure of people expecting her to win very well and cruised to victory in the second set. Amazing tennis from Janowicz who literally blew Almagro off the court. Almagro just didn't know what to do as Janowicz fired serve after serve at 140mph down at him. Kerber must be reeling after losing her match to Kanepi. She really should have won that tie-break but Kanepi deserves credit for that comeback.



Men's Third Round Selected Results:

(2) Murray beat (32) Robredo 6-2, 6-4, 7-5.
(4) Ferrer beat Agut 6-3, 3-6, 7-6, 7-5.
(13) Haas beat Wang 6-3, 6-2, 7-5.
(24) Janowicz beat (15) Almagro 7-6, 6-3, 6-4.

Women's Second and Third Round Selected Results:

Kanepi beat (7) Kerber 3-6, 7-6, 6-3.
(15) Bartoli beat Giorgi 6-4, 7-5.
(19) Suarez-Navarro beat Bouchard 7-5, 6-2.
(20) Flipkens beat Dolonc 6-4, 6-2.
Robson beat Duque-Marino 6-4, 6-1.

Men's Performance of the Day: Jerzy Janowicz for an inspired show of tennis to defeat Almagro.

Women's Performance of the Day: Kai Kanepi for a brilliant comeback against seventh seed Kerber.

Wimbledon: Second Round (Day 4)

Djokovic and Williams power into the third round

Novak Djokovic eased into the third round of Wimbledon with a straight sets victory over Bobby Reynolds. The first set was competitive but Djokovic held the edge in the tie-break. From then on it was comfortable for the world number one, taking the next two sets in quick succession. Del Potro and Berdych both proved too powerful for their respective opponents as they sealed second round wins in straight sets. Richard Gasquet looked in dominant form as the Frenchman took the opening set agaisnt Soeda 6-0. Soeda managed to secure one set before Gasquet prevailed in the fourth set. Sijsling caused the only shock in the me's draw, taking out the promising Milos Raonic in three sets.

Serena Williams played strongly against Garcia which was more than enough to make the third round. It was a similar story for Radwanska who prevailed in straight sets over Johansson. Nai Li looked in line for an upset as Halep levelled the match at one set apiece but the sixth seed found her game to bagel Halep in the deciding set. Roberta Vinci overcame a tough encounter with Cepelova, taking the final set 9-7.

My Opinion: A straightforward day for the big guns. Novak is playing extremely well whilst Del Potro and Berdych look in fine form too. A little surprised that Raonic lost to Sijsling. Sijsling possesses a big serve but I did not think he had the game to beat Raonic. Garcia played well to secure as many games as she did against Serena because the American played well. Na Li showed determination and willpower to win the final set in her match whilst Vinci deserves credit for winning 9-7 in the third set against Cepelova.



Men's Second Round Selected Results:

(1) Djokovic beat Reynolds 7-6, 6-3, 6-1.
(7) Berdych beat Brands 7-6, 6-4, 6-2.
(8) Del Potro beat Levine 6-2, 7-6, 6-3.
(9) Gasquet beat Soeda 6-0, 6-3, 6-7, 6-3.
(12) Nishikori beat Mayer 7-6, 6-4, 6-2.
Sijsling beat (17) Raonic 7-5, 6-4, 7-6.

Women's Second Round Selected Results:

(1) Williams beat Garcia 6-3, 6-2.
(4) Radwanska beat Johansson 6-1, 6-3.
(6) Na Li beat Halep 6-2, 1-6, 6-0.
(14) Stosur beat Puchkova 6-2, 6-2.
(11) Vinci beat Cepelova 6-1, 4-6, 9-7.
(18) Cibulkova beat Torro-Flor 6-0, 6-1.

Men's Doubles First Round Selected Results:

Delgado/Ebden beat Hewitt/Knowles 6-3, 7-5, 7-6.

Women's Doubles First Round Selected Results:

Cornet/Parmentier beat Slater/Whybourn 4-6, 7-5, 6-4.
Soler-Espinosa/Suarez-Navarro beat Moore/South 6-4, 7-6.
Pennetta/Petkovic beat Murray/Windley 6-0, 2-6, 6-2.

Men's Performance of the Day: Sijsling for outserving Milos Raonic.

Women's Performance of the Day: Vinci for overcoming a really tough encounter with Cepelova.

Wimbledon: Second Round (Day 3)

Big Names fall on crazy day at Wimbledon

Federer, Tsonga, Cilic, Isner, Azarenka, Ivanovic, Jankovic, Wozniacki and Sharapova are all OUT. Nobody could have predicted today's casualties and shocks. Sadly, Tsonga and Isner had to retire from their matches due to injury whilst Cilic and Azarenka didn't even make it to the court before withdrawing with injuries. There were two huge upsets in both the mens and womens draws as Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova both crashed out in the second round. Federer took a close first set on a tie-break before Stakhovsky continued to play the match of his life and take the next three sets against a nervous Federer. Meanwhile, Maria Sharapova had plenty to say about the court conditions after her shock defeat to Larcher De Brito as the Russian fell over on multiple occasions. Andy Murray managed to avoid all the drama and defeat Lu in straight sets after three dominant sets. Caroline Wozniacki's year still hasn't improved after bowing out to Cetkovska in straight sets whilst both Jankovic and Ivanovic crashed out.

My Opinion: It was unfortunate so many players have had to withdraw due to injury. The pressures and pains of playing on grass after a long clay court season has taken its toll and caught up on certain players. However, some of the big names going out really shocked me. Roger Federer losing on centre court to Stakhovsky really was incredible although the guy made no mistakes. It does showcase that a good serve and volley game can still beat the best. Maria Sharapova crashing out was another shocker. The two loudest ladies in the game was amusing/horrible to listen to throughout but Sharapova just didn't play well enough - most probably to her lack of confidence in the court and being able to stand up. A shame to see Wozniacki unable to build upon her first round whilst Ivanovic lost to a very promising young lady in Bouchard, who won the girl's wimbledon junior title last year. Good too see Murray through after amidst the chaos and the draw has really opened up for him now. Nadal, Federer, Tsonga and Cilic are all out which means the highest ranked player on his side of the draw is 15th seed Nicolas Almagro. A similar story for Serena Williams who now becomes the even more favourite to win after Sharapova and Azarenka both departed.



Men's Second Round Selected Results:

(2) Murray beat Lu 6-3, 6-3, 7-5.
Stakhovsky beat (3) Federer 6-7, 7-6, 7-5, 7-6.
Gulbis beat (6) Tsonga 3-6, 6-3, 6-3, ret.
De Schepper walkover (10) Cilic
(15) Almagro beat Rufin 7-5, 6-7, 6-3, 6-4.
Mannarino beat (18) Isner 1-0 ret.
(20) Youzhny beat Pospisil 6-2, 6-7, 7-6, 3-6, 6-4.

Women's Second Round Selected Results:

Larcher De Brito beat (2) Sharapova 6-3, 6-4
Pennetta walkover (3) Azarenka
(8) Kvitova walkover Shevdova
Cetkovska beat (9) Wozniacki 6-2, 6-2.
Bouchard beat (12) Ivanovic 6-3, 6-3.
(15) Bartoli beat Mchale 7-5, 6-4.
Dolonc beat (16) Jankovic 7-5, 6-2.
(17) Stephens beat Petkovic 7-6, 2-6, 8-6.
(19) Suarez-Navarro beat Lucic-Baroni 1-6, 6-3, 6-3.
(20) Flipkens beat Jovanovski 6-4, 6-4.

Men's Doubles First Round Selected Results:

(9) Fleming/Marray beat Klizan/Zelenay 7-6, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.
(16) Huey/Inglot beat Agut/Gimeno-Traver 6-3, 6-4, 7-5.
Marrero/Seppi beat Edmund/Baker 6-4, 7-5, 6-2.
Matosevic/Moser beat Rice/Thornley 6-4, 6-3, 6-7, 4-6, 6-4.

Women's First Round Selected Results:

(1) Vinci/Errani beat Keothavong/Konta 6-3, 6-1.
(11) Black/Erakovic beat Jugic-Salkic/Watson 6-2, 6-0.
Raymond/Robson beat Schiavone/Stosur 6-3, 6-1.

Men's Performance of the Day: Stakhovsky for bringing back serve and volleying and sending Federer packing.

Women's Performance of the Day: Larcher De Brito for shrieking even louder than Sharapova and thus claiming vocal and tennis victory.

Wimbledon: First Round (Day 2)

Laura Robson shocks 10th seed Maria Kirilenko 

A spectacular performance from Britain's Laura Robson proved too much for Maria Kirilenko - the tenth seed at this year's championships. Powerful groundstrokes and accurate serving from Robson was enough to blast past a shocked Kirilenko in straight sets. Unfortunately, it was bad news for Heather Watson. Returning from injury to play at Wimbledon, Watson could not find her best tennis as she was ousted in two sets by the big Amercian Madison Keys. Serena Willams strolled into the second round, losing only four games in the process to Minella. Fourth seed Radwanska and sixth seed Na Li both eased into round two with easy wins over their respective opponents.

There was only one upset in the men's draw as Feliciano Lopez defeated Gilles Simon in straight sets. Lopez holds a huge serve and is a real danger to seeds in this tournament whereas Simon doesn't posses a strong enough game on a grass court. Dodig came back from two sets down to level the match at two sets apiece against Kohlschrieber. Amazingly, the German had to retire at 1-2 down which gifted Dodig a passage into the next round. Djokovic played some devastating tennis to overcome Mayer in straight sets. Del Potro and Berdych both progressed with straight sets victories whilst Ferrer and Gasquet both dropped a set before progressing into round two.

My Opinion:  Brilliant to see Robson come through a tough match. Robson is known to defeat the star seeds in major tournaments but she played extremely well today. Not surprised that Serena won comfortably with the game she possesses. A shame for Heather Watson to go out so early. I can understand the defeat though as it was one of her first matches back since her glandular fever illness. No doubt that she will be back better than ever soon. Other matches went in favour of the seeds today which is no surprise in women's tennis. Dominating show from Novak today. A strong contender to win the tournament and he looks in form to do it. I would have been more shocked if Simon had beaten Lopez, even though the seedings suggest otherwise. Lopez has a huge serve and the game to play well on grass whereas Simon doesn't. Ferrer, Berdych and Del Potro all safely through is a good thing as they could all pose a threat for the Final.



Men's First Round Selected Results:

(1) Djokovic beat Mayer 6-3, 7-5, 6-4.
(4) Ferrer beat Alund 6-1, 4-6, 7-5, 6-2.
(7) Berdych beat Klizan 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.
(8) Del Potro beat Ramos 6-2, 7-5, 6-1.
(9) Gasquet beat Granollers 6-7, 6-4, 7-5, 6-2.
(12) Nishikori beat Ebden 6-2, 6-4, 6-3.
(13) Haas beat Tursonov 6-3, 7-5, 7-5.
Dodig beat (16) Kohlshreiber 4-6, 6-7, 7-6, 6-3, 2-1.
(17) Raonic beat Berlocq 6-4, 6-3, 6-3.
Lopez beat (19) Simon 6-2, 6-4, 7-6.

Ladies First Round Selected Results:

(1) Williams beat Minella 6-1, 6-3.
(4) Radwanska beat Meusburger 6-1, 6-1.
(6) Na Li beat Krajicek 6-1, 6-1.
(7) Kerber beat Mattek-Sands 6-3, 6-4.
Robson beat (10) Kirilenko 6-3, 6-4.
(11) Vinci beat Scheepers 6-2, 6-1.
Pliskova beat (13) Petrova 6-3, 6-2.
(14) Stosur beat Schmiedlova 6-1, 6-3.
(18) Cibulkova beat Camerin 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.
Keys beat Watson 6-3, 7-5.
Kanepi beat Moore 7-5, 5-7, 7-5.

Men's Doubles First Round Selected Results:

Skupski/Malisse beat Donskoy/Kuznetsov 7-6, 6-7, 6-0, 6-1.

Men's Performance of the Day: Novak Djokovic for defeating Mayer in stylish fashion.

Women's Performance of the Day: Laura Robson for knocking out tenth seed Maria Kirilenko in classy style.

Wimbledon: First Round (Day 1)

Steve Darcis shocks Rafael Nadal on opening day of Wimbledon

Steve Darcis caused one of the biggest upsets in tennis history on the first day at the All England Championships to beat French Open winner Rafael Nadal. The Belgium played the match of his life as he knocked out Nadal in straight sets, much to the shock of everyone. Lleyton Hewitt rolled back the years to upset 11th seed Stanislas Wawrinka in three sets whilst Marin Cilic was beaten by Marcos Baghdatis. Amongst all the top seeds dropping out, some managed to remain calm and progress. Andy Murray began his campaign well with victory over Benjamin Becker. Roger Federer strolled past Victor Hanescu, conceding only five games whilst Jo-Wilfried Tsonga defeated David Goffin.

There was only one major shock on the opening day's play in the women's draw as Sara Errani was trumped by Puig in straight sets. It was an easier day for Victoria Azarenka and Maria Sharapova who both prevailed over their opponents. Caroline Wozniacki looked to have found some much needed form by only conceding two games to Candela. It was a tough start for Petra Kvitova who scraped past Vandeweghe in three competitive sets.

My Opinion: Very surprised that Nadal lost in the opening round after looking in such good form in the French Open. It must be noted that Nadal looked to be struggling with his knee throughout the match but Steve Darcis pulled out the match of his life to win. Not as shocked to see Hewitt beat Wawrinka. Hewitt is a wily fox on grass and that was a tough first round draw for Wawrinka. Similar things can be said of Cilic's defeat to Baghdatis as the Cypriot is a worthy opponent at Wimbledon. Great to see Murray progress nicely into round two with a solid win over Becker. Federer really cruised through his match. He should be a real threat again this year. I was not that surprised to see Errani go out so early. She has the game for the slower clay courts but not the fast grass ones. Azarenka and Sharapova wasted no time in progressing to round two whilst Kvitova played horribly but managed to win. Good to see Wozniacki win a match after some poor form this year.



Men's First Round Selected Results:

(2) Murray beat Becker 6-4, 6-3, 6-2.
(3) Federer beat Hanescu 6-3, 6-2, 6-0.
Darcis beat (5) Nadal 7-6, 7-6, 6-4.
(6) Tsonga beat Goffin 7-6, 6-4, 6-3.
Baghdatis beat (10) Cilic 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.
Hewitt beat (11) Wawrinka 6-4, 7-5, 6-3.
(14) Tipsarevic beat Troicki 6-3, 6-4, 7-6.
(15) Almagro beat Zopp 6-4, 7-6, 7-5.
(18) Isner beat Donskoy 6-1, 7-6, 7-6.
(20) Youzhny beat Haase 6-4, 7-5, 7-5.
(24) Janowicz beat Edmund 6-2, 6-2, 6-4.
Lu beat Ward 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 7-6.

Women's First Round Selected Results:

(2) Azarenka beat Koehler 6-1, 6-2.
(3) Sharapova beat Mladenovic 7-6, 6-3.
Puig beat (5) Errani 6-3, 6-2.
(8) Kvitova beat Vandeweghe 6-1, 5-7, 6-4.
(9) Wozniacki beat Candela 6-0, 6-2.
(12) Ivanovic beat Razzano 7-6, 6-0.
(15) Bartoli beat Svitlolina 6-3, 7-5.
(16) Jankovic beat Konta 6-2, 7-5.
(17) Stephens beat Hampton 6-3, 6-3.
(19) Suarez Navarro beat Dominguez Lino 6-2, 6-2.
(20) Flipkens beat Putintseva 7-5, 6-4.
Pennetta beat Baltacha 6-4, 6-1.
Giorgi beat Murray 6-3, 6-4.
Muguruz beat Keothavong 6-4, 6-0.

Men's Performance of the Day: Steve Darcis deserves this. Sheer brilliance from Darcis who outplayed Rafael Nadal on Centre Court.

Women's Performance of the Day: Maria Sharapova for fighting her way to victory over a stubborn Mladenovic.