Hewett misses out in Melbourne

Alfie Hewett narrowly missed out on claiming the Australian Open men’s wheelchair singles title after losing out to Belgium’s Joachim Gerard 6-0, 4-6, 6-4 in Wednesday’s final.

Having trailed 6-0, 4-0 in the second, Hewett mustered a heroic comeback to win seven consecutive games to take the match to a deciding set.

However despite saving six match points the two-time French Open and two-time US Open champion Hewett was unable to claim a maiden title in Melbourne after a misplaced forehand at 40-0 handed Gerard the victory.

“I am really proud of not tanking at six love, four love down so I am proud of myself for that comeback and for making it a final,” Hewett said.

“It’s been a long five weeks and I am ready to go home now.”

Hewett will nevertheless take comfort from winning a record-equalling 10th Grand Slam doubles title alongside Gordon Reid to become Britain’s joint most successful doubles partnership.

The duo defeated Stephane Houdet and Nicolas Peifer 7-5 7-6 (3) to defend their title in a repeat of last year’s final.

Hewett and Reid currently hold three of the four Grand Slam doubles titles having also won at last year’s French open and US Open.