21 July 2018
Lapthorne feels a British Open title is within touching distance
Andy Lapthorne feels he is edging nearer to claiming his first British Open title as he just missed out on the top spot to world number one David Wagner.
Lapthorne flew out of the blocks in the quad singles final of the British Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships in Nottingham on Sunday, but couldn’t quite see out victory in a tough but enthralling contest.
The Brit stormed to the first set 6-2, before American Wagner responded and claimed the second set 6-4 to level the game and take it to a decider.
In the seventh game of the third set, two double faults and a lob sent long by Lapthorne, combined with a great serve return by Wagner, meant the American broke the Brit.
Wagner then served out to win the match as Lapthorne’s search for his maiden British Open title continues, having made the final four times in five years – although the 27-year-old believes a triumph is in sight.
“I might be losing these finals but I’m getting a lot closer and I really feel like I’m back where I belong,” said the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Paralympic silver medallist.
“Thanks to all my team, especially Marc (McCarroll), who put up with me day in, day out. He’s been a big help and really put me on the right path and he’s been a big part of that.”
Lapthorne also paid tribute to the ability of his opponent, acknowledging the personal troubles that Wagner played through to claim the title.
“First of all, well done to David,” added Lapthorne, who remains world number three.
“He’s had some stuff going on off court this week with his losing his nan and I know what that’s like and how inspiring that is, so I knew he was going to come out here today and give it his all.
“He’s an absolute class act to be able to come back from where he was just proves why he’s heading to the tennis hall of fame.”
Join the ParalympicsGB movement
Join
The ParalympicsGB movement
We may include relevant updates from our trusted partners, but will never sell your data on. We take your privacy seriously and you can opt out at any time Privacy Policy
Related News
30 December 2022
Geoff Newton awarded OBE in King's New Year's Honours
3 September 2021
Whiley and Shuker win third Paralympic medal as a pair after doubles silver
3 September 2021
Jordanne Whiley: Singles bronze is the happiest moment of my life
2 September 2021
Gold-medal match a "dream come true" for Whiley and Shuker
1 September 2021
Hewett and Reid close in as Lapthorne and Cotterill miss out
30 August 2021
Reid and Hewett eyeing Rio revenge after reaching wheelchair tennis final
30 August 2021
Reid, Hewett and Whiley move closer to wheelchair tennis medals
28 August 2021
Whiley and Shuker move closer to wheelchair tennis medal after comfortable win
28 August 2021
Whiley up and running with fine opening wheelchair tennis victory
27 August 2021