With Andy Murray struggling to return to full fitness with his on-going hip problem, Kyle Edmund pulling out of Sydney International with a knee injury and facing a race against time to be fit for Australian Open, I look at the youngsters who could potentially spearhead an assault on the rankings in 2019. Great Britain is currently blessed with young, hard-working and talented players, that are on the verge of something special.
Two players that have started the 2019 season superbly well, are Cameron Norrie and Katie Boulter. The Brits formed the mixed doubles team in the Hofman Cup, and claimed a memorable win over America’s Serena Williams and Frances Tiafoe, after previously beating the Greek pairing Stefanos Tsitsipas and Maria Sakkari. A brilliant learning experience, that also proved hugely successful. Boulter performed admirably in her three singles matches too, notably taking Williams to a tie-break in a match she lost 6-1 7-6.
Meanwhile, Norrie played at a level that would trouble anyone in the world, which saw him claim two of his best careers wins to date against Tiafoe and Tsitsipas, both in straight-sets. Although, the highlight of his week was probably sharing the court with Roger Federer.
A lot is expected of Harriett Dart this year, her fantastic performance against Karolina Pliskova at Wimbledon 2018 caught the eye of many British tennis fans. Dart is a very well-rounded player, quick around the court and has great desire to win. She started the season with four consecutive wins, seeing her reach the second round of Brisbane international, before she lost to Anastasija Sevastova. At just 22 years old, she has a huge future in the women’s game.
Katie Swan is another Brit enjoying success in Australia already this year. The 19 year old has reached the $25,000 semi-finals in Playford, after three consecutive straight-sets victories. Swan has a very high-level of fitness, and possesses powerful groundstrokes on both sides, which can result in her dominating many of her opponents.
Sarah Beth Grey formed a brilliant doubles partnership with Olivia Nicholls last year, resulting in the British pair winning three tournaments, including Shrewsbury Open. 2018 was also a successful year for Scottish star Maia Lumsden, who won the singles Shrewsbury Open, along with two other $15,000 events. All British fans are pinning hopes on Jack Draper being the next Andy Murray, particularly after his stunning performances in Wimbledon juniors, which sadly ended with defeat in a memorable final.
The player I am most excited about watching develop this year, is Emma Raducanu. At 16 years old, she is an amazing talent that is destined for great things. Last year, she won two $15,000 events in Turkey and Israel. On top of that, she went on a 20 match winning streak, winning four lower level tournaments in a row. Raducanu is brilliant to watch. Very strong from the back of the court, has a solid serve and plays shots that should be way beyond her years. For her sake, and the fans, I hope she stays fit and continues to light up the courts in 2019, because I believe British tennis has a very special player on their hands,
I think we have a seriously talented crop of players that can have huge success in 2019. From following them on social media, you see how hard they are training to reach the top, coupled with the talent they possess, I expect some big runs at the top events from our young superstars. It’s without doubt an exciting time to be a British tennis fan. I wish all our players the very best of luck for 2019. Keep working hard and the success will follow.
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