Juan Carlos Ferrero is crowned Brodies Invitational Champion
Juan Carlos Ferrero has been crowned Brodies Invitational Champion in a thrilling final against Tim Henman at this year’s Brodies Invitational at Gleneagles, winning the match 6-3, 6-4.
During the three-day event (Thursday 13, Friday 14 and Saturday 15 June), which is the only Scottish fixture of the ATP Champions Tour, spectators were treated to world class, fast-paced performances from former British No. 1 Tim Henman, former World No. 1 Juan Carlos Ferrero, GB Fed Cup Captain Anne Keothavong, French Open finalist Henri Leconte, former World No. 4 Thomas Enqvist, former World No. 9 Dominique Monami, Wimbledon semi-finalist Xavier Malisse and eight-time ATP World Tour doubles champion Colin Fleming. With eight legends, it was the event’s biggest line up yet.
Some of Scotland’s most promising junior talent also entertained the crowds with their skills on the court, with Scotland’s under 18s top 3-ranked Charlie Miller and legend Dominique Monami defeating Scotland’s leading female for under 16s and under 18s Lucia Rizza and Colin Fleming 8-6, in a pro-set 8 mixed doubles match on the Friday.
On the Saturday, two of Scotland’s top juniors Connor Thomson and Jacob Fearnley paired up with Henri Leconte and Thomas Enqvist respectively, with Fearnley and Enqvist clinching the match in a tie break. Both Connor and Jacob are playing at Junior Wimbledon next month, and earlier in the day had the opportunity to learn tips from the pros in a masterclass session with Juan Carlos Ferrero and Tim Henman.
Also adding to the line-up were some of Scotland’s best under 11s – Ollie Anderson, Freddie Mailer, Freya Cooper and Anna McKnight – who took part in a series of drills and games to demonstrate the promise and potential of junior players who are supported by Tennis Scotland and its development programme.
Scottish sports broadcaster Alison Walker returned to MC the event and interview the players, whilst former Fed Cup captain Judy Murray was also there to lend support as founder of the event’s charity partner, the Judy Murray Foundation, and to deliver a masterclass to junior players alongside Colin Fleming.
Nick Scott, managing partner at Brodies, said: “This year’s Brodies Invitational has been another tremendous success, we’re delighted to be able to bring a world-class sporting event like the ATP Champions Tour to Scotland. This year, it has been even bigger and better for tennis fans through the introduction of an extra day of tennis on the Thursday, as well as the addition of Anne and Dominique to our tennis legends line-up.
“Throughout the three days, all of the players put on a performance that thrilled and entertained, showing us all why they have scaled international heights throughout their sporting careers.
“We’re proud to support tennis in Scotland, particularly at a grassroots level, and it has been particularly rewarding to provide a platform for tennis fans to watch and enjoy some of our country’s up and coming stars. From the thrilling performances of Lucia, Connor, Jacob and Charlie, to the potential shown by juniors who participated in Judy’s masterclass and the under 11s match – the commitment of Scotland’s young players to their game is truly inspirational.
“It is their dedication that reminds us why businesses should give their support to sport, whether that be by helping young talent to achieve their potential, or simply encouraging people to be active.”
Established in 1997, the ATP Champions Tour spans the globe with former champions competing in tournaments in cities including London, Brussels, Palma de Mallorca, Mexico and Delray Beach.