British duo Andy Murray and Laura Robson were narrowly beaten 2-1 in the final of the 2010 Hopman Cup in Perth, Australia by Spain’s Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez and Tommy Robredo.
15 year old Robson, who is one of the most promising young talents in British tennis right now, produced a stunning upset by beating world number 26 Martinez Sanchez 6-1 7-6 (8-6) to win the singles.
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The former Wimbledon junior champion had earlier in the week been handed a wildcard entry to the qualifying for the Australian Open. This tremendous win will only serve to boost her confidence going into the tournament.
“I’m sure Laura can speak for herself, but this week was a great experience for her,” Murray said.
“She did great today beating a girl who is ranked 26 in the world. At her age that is amazing. She has the potential. I know what it’s like at that age and she is only going to get better.”
Unfortunately world number four Murray was unable to beat Robredo in the men’s singles, losing 6-1 4-6 3-6.
This meant it was all down to the mixed doubles result, which the Spaniards won 7-6 (8-6) 7-5. The British duo had three set points in the opening set but was unable to capitalize on this.
Speaking afterwards Murray held his hands up and said he felt he was to blame for the defeat,
Murray said: “I’d like to thank my partner for playing with me. I kind of let her down a bit so I feel bad about that.”
It was the first time that Britain has ever reached the final of the Hopman Cup. The pairing look set to continue together and it is looking more likely that they will pair up for London 2012.
Louise Hudson, Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine
