By Contributor Jack Beeston
Nobody could have predicted such a successful Olympics for Team GB but it would seem we have some intel as our Tennis in Notts followers were almost bang on with their predictions in both the men’s and the women’s events!
Andy Murray defended his title from London 2012 with a gold in Rio and it was indeed an outsider in the shape of Monica Puig who took the women’s title – Puig played astonishingly well against Germany’s Angelique Kerber to win Puerto Rico’s first ever gold medal!!
The Rio Olympics wasn’t only a success for British Tennis the games were our most successful away Olympics in history. This just shows how great a period British sport is in currently. For a small island nation, to come away second in the Olympic table shows how important sport is to the people of Britain. This success also proves how much our support has improved for our athletes, it is now possible for someone to pursue a sport they love as a career.
The London 2012 games has obviously inspired a new generation of athletes, there are now so many programs that you can join if you have seen a sport that interests you. From beginner to expert levels there is a club or society out there for you. If tennis is your sport then we are here for you, in Nottinghamshire there are a variety of activities you can get involved with whatever your age or ability.
Andy Murray’s success was great to watch, he showed great mental and physical strength to come through each round. The final against Juan Martin Del Potro, who has made a triumphant return back to fitness, was a first class display of Andy’s mental toughness as he was patient enough to see out his opponent who began to fade in the closing of the match.
It is also important to mention Jo Konta, who made it to the quarter-finals only losing to silver medalist Angelique Kerber in tough conditions. Jo has made huge steps forward in the past year and is now a real danger in the women’s draw. She is now at number 14 in the world and in the form of her life.
The life of a professional player is very hectic, while other athletes will be relaxing after the games, the British stars are now launching their assault on the US Open, the final grand slam of the year.