Doubles dream
STOCKPORT tennis stars Liam and Naomi Broady will be targeting success in the Wimbledon doubles after they both suffered defeats in the opening singles rounds at Wimbledon.
Liam teams with Scott Clayton to take on the team of Frances Tiafoe and Jackson Withrow today, while Naomi and Asia Muhammad face Christina McHale and Jelena Ostapenko.
Liam suffered a straight sets defeat (7-5, 6-0, 6-1) to 13th seed and former Wimbledon finalist Milos Raonic, while Naomi was also beaten in straight sets (6-2, 7-5) to third seed and defending champion Garbine Muguruza.
“I have never played someone with a serve that big before. From the start of the match, I think the first game he went a couple like 136mph, 138mph,” said Liam following the defeat to Raonic. “Even a second serve I think at one point in the match was like 140. It kind of shocked me a bit.”
Liam wasn’t the only British hope to lose on Monday, as Cameron Norrie suffered a first round defeat. Still, Liam says he has been taking inspiration from his countryman.
“I’m hoping to get to the place that Cam’s in now, he has done a great job of it,” said Liam. “It took him less than a year to get into the top 100. It definitely gives me heart.”
Speaking after her win over Naomi, Murguruza said: “I knew she had a big serve and big shots and on grass it is always difficult.
“To be back in a grand slam is difficult, so I am really excited the way I am playing.”