Ladies World Doubles Championship 2023

An exciting first semi final where Claire’s power and presence, combined with clever angles from Tara, won the day. But Georgie and Honor played their part, never far off the pace and holding a good lead in the third game. But ultimately Claire’s dominant serve prevailed.

Claire Fahey & Tara Lumley bt Honor Cockroft & Georgie Willis 15/8 15/7 15/11

The second semi-final was less in doubt as World Champion Lea kept up a relentless hunger for points, playing impervious Rackets, with Cesca mopping up any opportunities. Mimi and Eva rallied well and played their part in another great exhibition of Ladies’ Rackets showing an ever growing pool of talent. 

Cesca Sweet & Lea Van Der Zwalmen bt Mimi Davis & Eve Shenkman 15/4 15/2 15/4

A mouthwatering final very much lived up to expectations. The packed gallery a testament to the brilliant advance of Ladies Rackets with two of the key influencers matched against one another. After an even start, the first game was locked at 4-all, with nothing between the pairs. But then an incredible seven point run from Claire’s dominant serve, saw Claire and Tara establish a good 11-4 lead. But a remarkable 11 point run, saw Lea and Cesca close out the game, 15/11. Lea served beautifully, very much complimented by her partner.

The second game started promisingly for Claire and Tara, quickly sweeping into an 8-1 lead on the first hand. Some great rallies ensued, but with few points gained by either pair. At 2-8, Lea and Cesca fought back with a five point run, to trail 7-8. Claire and Tara responded to lead 10-7, but this spurred their opponents on who amassed eight points in their next hand, taking the game 15/10, and a two-game lead.

The third and what was to be the final game saw all four players in top form. After two hands, the score was 6-all. As Claire and Tara played more on Cesca, she grew stronger and stronger. But Lea was missing nothing and increasingly covering the shots. They led 9-7, then 12-9, and closed in on the title. At Championship point Lea played unstoppable shot, winning the game, 15/9, and the match three games to love. Astonishing Rackets, by two amazing ladies, what a fantastic effort from Claire and Tara, who very much play their part in an unforgettable final.

Cesca Sweet & Lea Van Der Zwalmen bt Claire Fahey & Tara Lumley 15/11 15/10 15/9.