After six days of thrilling action, Albury’s Margaret Court Cup has come to an end for another year with tennis of the highest standard.
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Tournament director Phil Shanahan was extremely pleased with the event, which attracted a record 370 players to the Border.
Shanahan described some of the play in the major finals “as good as you will see worldwide”.
“It’s the best standard of tournament I’ve seen here across all age groups,” Shanahan said.
“We’ve had record entries with great representation from all over Australia and internationally.
“Everyone has said they’ve loved being here, which is good and why wouldn’t you want to be here on grass?
“Overall, it’s great for Albury-Wodonga and I’m looking forward to starting the Wodonga championships (on Wednesday).
Shanahan extended thanks to all the volunteers who helped make the event a success.
“A real thank you should also go to the travelling coaches that bring the teams over,” he said.
“They’re the ones who make it what it is and without them we’d have a really small event.”
New South Wales young gun Dimitri Vidin broke through for a memorable win in the men’s singles, 4-6, 6-1, 7-5, against Aitor Lasa.
Vidin withstood the early barrage from Lasa to come away with the coveted Border tennis crown.
It’s the best standard of tournament I’ve seen here across all age groups. We’ve had record entries with great representation from all over Australia and internationally.
- Tournament director Phil Shanahan
An impressive women’s final between Sydney’s Linda Huang and Gunnedah’s Gabby O’Gorman saw Huang come from a set and 3-1 down to clinch the title.
It was the 18-year-old’s second Margaret Court Cup crown in three years.
“It was battle, but I’m happy I turned things around and got through it,” Huang said.
“I lost the first 6-1 and was 3-1 down (in the second) and had to fight through.
“I managed to survive and poke a few balls back into the court and turn things around.”
Huang, the number one seed in the draw, admitted her second victory on the Border is high on her list of career achievements.
Albury rising star Rory Parnell was among a host of local players to perform well at the tournament.
The youngster was beaten 10-8 in a deciding super tiebreaker in the third round of the under 12 boys singles, but his impressive effort indicates he could have a very bright future in the sport.