MCC Gold Racquet 2024

Robert played with his usual panache and tenacity throughout the match. At high pace, he rushed to 4-0 rather unchallenged until the fifth and sixth games when Bertie had opportunities to get on the score board, but could not quite get there. Robert was then comfortably into his stride, taking the second set in 18 minutes. The first game alone of the third set took twelve minutes but, in short, Robert remained dominant and took the match without dropping a game.

Bertie took some fantastic points and challenged for games, but Robert was far too strong (afterwards saying that he still had to give it 100% and take his opponent seriously).

Robert’s post-match speech also gave thanks to those who came out in support and then more considerable praise for his opponent. Whilst the score line reads of a hard day, Robert chose to focus on Bertie’s brilliant start to the season in both the French Open match versus Steve Virgona, then the All Comers’ victory last month at Lord’s which set up this Gold Racquet challenge.

Bertie Vallat becomes the youngest ever Silver Racquet holder and a new name for the honours board which goes back to 1867. Robert Shenkman retains the Gold Racquet and will wait to see whether it is Bertie or another who challenges him in November 2025.