Reid and Hewett turn their attention to doubles

Gordon Reid insists he and Alfie Hewett face their sternest Wimbledon defence to date as they gear up for the wheelchair doubles.

The pair were both knocked out in their opening singles matches and now face French top seeds Stephane Houdet and Nicolas Peifer for a place in the final.

Win that and they have a shot at a fourth straight doubles title at the All England Club but Reid is ready for a challenge.

“I believe it is going to be our toughest year yet. Results haven’t been so good for us so far this year and the best players in the world are here,” he said.

“The crowds always get behind us here and especially in doubles because that is probably the most entertaining part of our game, and the fans can really get the tennis that is being played.

“Mine and Alfie’s styles definitely suit the surface and we both move very well to cover the court.

“It has taken us a while to put a flow together and it is something that we have had to work hard on in the past.”

Reid was beaten by top seed Shingo Kunieda 6-1 6-1 in the singles and admitted he struggled with his timing against the Japanese – who hardly gave an inch.

The pair also played at the French Open last month, where Kunieda won in three sets.

“It was a completely different to the game we played in France and I felt good going into the match and well prepared,” said the 27-year-old.

“My timing was a little bit off though and I also thought the courts were playing a bit slower than usual but it is hard to win against someone when they only make five unforced errors in the while match.”

Meanwhile Hewett was overpowered by Argentine Gustavo Fernandez 6-1 6-3 but is hoping that, with his partner also losing, defeat can serve as the best possible motivation.

“I felt that there was bit of pressure on me so I had to hit out a little but there but I have to dust myself down and get on with it now,” said Hewett.

“I know Gordon lost as well but that will probably be a good thing for us because we will be able to bounce off each other and big each other up.”