Invitation Singles Tournament 2011
Nov 12, 2011 - Nov 20, 2011 Queen's Club G Smith-Bingham
Invitation Singles Main Draw
Invitation Singles
Sunday 20th November - Invitation Singles Final - Bridgeman Court (Ticket Only)
James Stout bt Alex Titchener-Barrett 15/12 17/15 15/3
In both the first two games ATB pulled out a lead forcing World Champion Jamie onto the back foot. In the second game, ATB had a number of game points but on each occasion Jamie returned with interest and snatched back the serve. Once Jamie levelled at 14-14, he looked strong, and closed out after a fierce struggle in the set to three.The third game was one way traffic although ATB never gave up, running after virtually impossible cut shots. It was a triumphant return to Queen's and Robin Geffen of Neptune presented the prestigious trophy, which Jamie had won previously in 2009. Jamie was also presented with the Latham Cup denoting his outstanding achievement as a professional in 2010/11.
Saturday 19th November
J Stout bt J Coyne 3-1 (15/6 15/5 9/15 15/11)
A Titchener-Barrett bt W Hopton 3-0 (15/6 15/9 16/13)
Jamie Stout eased past James Coyne in four, while Alex TB defeated Will Hopton in three, to set up a rematch of last year's World Challenge in tomorrow's final.
Thursday 17th November
Will Hopton bt James Beaumont 3-0 (15/6 15/10 15/6)
Alex Titchener-Barrett vs Nick James 3-1 (15/11 15/3 8/15 15/5)
The final days play in the round robin saw Will Hopton secure his place in the semi finals with a 3-0 win over James Beaumont, although James certainly make Hoppy work for his win. In the final game ATB overcame Nick James in four games, with Nick pushing hard to take the valuable game in stunning fashion. But ATB was ultimately too strong and wore down his resilient opponent in the fourth. Nick fought to the bitter end, despite running low on racquets, and is certainly a player to watch in the future. ATB won his group setting up a semi final against long term rival Will Hopton on Saturday.
Wednesday 16th November
Jamie Stout bt Christian Portz 3-1 (15/4 15 11 10/15 15/4)
James Coyne vs Nick James 3-1 (15/17 15/9 15/9 17/15)
Alex Titchener-Barrett vs Mark Hubbard 3-0 (15/6 15/0 15/3)
Jamie Stout, fresh from qualifying for the quarter finals of the Real tennis British Open, swept into the semi finals of the Invitation Singles with a steady 3-1 win over Christian Portz. Christian will benefit greatly from the experience and also from securing the single game. Jamie, however, remains favourite to regain the title he won two years ago.
Without doubt, James Coyne's epic battle with Nick James was the stand-out match of the day. Nick kept Coynie honest throughout, with both players striking the ball with power and making remarkable recovery shots. Of note, the game was played with true sportsmanship, with Nick calling a vital shot down at the climax of the fourth game.
The final game saw Alex TB virtually secure his place in the semi finals with a routine win over Mark Hubbard.
Tuesday 15th November
Nick James bt Mark Hubbard 3-0 (15/7 15/4 w/o)
Jamie Stout bt Will Hopton 3-0 (15/7 16/14 15/7)
Jamie Stout bt James Beaumont 3-0 (15/8 15/8 15/2)
The match of the Group Stage lived up to expectations. Jamie Stout's first match was against one of his closest challengers, Will Hopton, who was certainly ready to push Jamie all the way. Although the final score will show a straight sets victory for the World Champion, the reality was closer, with Will going close in the second game. Jamie's second match was a little more straightforward - although James Beaumont certainly demonstrated why he won through the qualifiers. Earlier Nick James, currently in top form, comfortably beat Mark Hubbard.
Sunday 13th November
Will Hopton bt Christian Portz 3-0 (15/ 11 15/8 15/10)
Alex Titchener-Barrett bt James Coyne 3-1 (15/11 15/2 10/15 15/10)
Saturday 12th November
Christian Portz bt James Beaumont 3-0 (15/5 15/6 15/10)
James Coyne bt Mark Hubbard 3-2 (15/13 15/9 13/15 0/15 17/15)
All matches played at The Queen's Club (Bridgeman Court)
Professional’s prize money:
Round robin: £225 for each match completed
Losing semi-finalist: £1050
Runner-up: £1300
Winner: £1650
All winnings in the final stages of the tournament are inclusive of the Round Robin earnings.
Please note the rules and procedures for the Invitation Singles and its Qualifying tournament attached.