London, July 13: World No.1 fights back from one set down to win gentlemen’s Wheelchair singles title on No.1 Court
For the third time this year Tokito Oda and Alfie Hewett, the No.1 and No.2 players in the world, stared at each other across the net in a Grand Slam final – and for the second time, Oda won.The 19-year-old Japanese fought his way back against the crowd’s favourite to claim his second Wimbledon title 3-6, 7-5, 6-2 in two hours and 16 minutes.
The skill, speed and power of both men was remarkable; the atmosphere on court was unforgettable. It was a battle royal.How had Oda managed to turn it around? “I have no idea,” Oda said with a laugh.He knew what to expect from his old foe: they had played 16 finals over the last few years and Oda had won 10 of them. That he managed to win the 17th obviously made him happy. That he did it here made all the more special.“Two years ago, I won this tournament,” he said. “This tournament is different from the other tournaments. It’s so beautiful and everything is different. I like to play with the white shirts – everything is special for me. Motivation before the matches is definitely different so I really appreciate this moment.“I love tennis and I love to play on the big stadium. That was definitely a battle with Alfie but I really enjoy this moment. Maybe 100 per cent of the people were cheering for Alfie but I really enjoyed that moment. I’m really happy right now.”
Hewett, too, would never forget the moment. He completed his career Grand Slam by winning the title last year and even if the disappointment of losing his crown hurt, the way the crowd had come out in force to watch the wheelchair matches eased the pain.“It’s incredible,” the 27-year-old said. “Last year was obviously such a special moment for me, my family, my team, everyone who’s been on this journey with me to clinch my first ever Wimbledon singles trophy 12 months ago but, to be honest, I don’t think trophies can beat this sort of atmosphere and this sort of support. (Agencies)
