Scotland’s rising tennis stars stop off at the Brodies Invitational with Wimbledon in their sights
Four of Scotland’s rising tennis stars will join the biggest ever line up of legends at this year’s Brodies Invitational.
Scottish indoor doubles champions Rosie Sterk (14) (Wallace High School, Stirling) and Lucia Rizza (15) (Firrhill High School, Edinburgh) will take to the court with Jacob Fearnley (16) (Merchiston Castle School, Edinburgh) ranked 4 in the UK under 18s and Connor Thomson (17) (Beaconhurst School, Bridge of Allan) ranked 9 in the UK under 18s, to play doubles and mixed doubles matches on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 June at Gleneagles – the only Scottish fixture on the prestigious ATP Champions Tour.
Taking time out of busy tournament schedules, the junior fixture will allow tennis fans to see the legacy that Tennis Scotland is developing as the sport grows in popularity. It will also give the juniors the opportunity to play alongside tennis greats including former British No. 1 Tim Henman, former World No. 1 Thomas Muster, former World No. 8 Mark Philippoussis, French Open finalist Henri Leconte, former World No. 19 Xavier Malisse and eight-time ATP World Tour doubles champion Colin Fleming.
For Jacob and Connor, the Brodies Invitational could prove to be the warm-up for their Junior Wimbledon debuts as they both hope to pick up wildcards, which will allow them to compete on the famous courts of SW19.
Colin Fleming, national coach for Tennis Scotland said: “The depth of junior tennis talent in Scotland is going from strength to strength. It’s a very exciting time for our sport.
“The Brodies Invitational offers our up-and-coming players a valuable opportunity to play in front of a large home crowd. Being part of the ATP Champions Tour, it is also a great way to experience the atmosphere of major tennis events. It’s the perfect preparation for Jacob and Connor as they hope to head for Junior Wimbledon.”
With a focus on grassroots as well as elite tennis, former Fed Cup Captain Judy Murray will deliver a family coaching session alongside Tennis Scotland and Scottish sports broadcaster Alison Walker will MC the event for the second year.
Nick Scott, Brodies’ managing partner, said: “The junior matches are definitely some of the most popular over the course of the two days and we look forward to welcoming Rosie, Lucia, Jacob and Connor to the Brodies Invitational.
“As a firm our commitment to sport spans all levels and the skill levels of these rising stars show just what can be achieved if we nurture that talent. It is here that we can develop and secure a legacy, as well as inspire others, to get involved in sport.”
The Brodies Tennis Invitational is supported by event partners Brewin Dolphin, Pickering’s Gin, Quartermile, GP Plus, Eastern BMW and The Gate.
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.
Tickets are available to book now, priced at £39.50 for adults and £20 for children. Other ticket options, including family and weekend tickets, are also on the website.