No Second Thoughts: Hewitt Takes Stock

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

No Second Thoughts: Hewitt Takes Stock

Jan212016

Australian reflects on going out on his own terms

As Lleyton Hewitt stood on Rod Laver Arena after playing his final singles match, a video was played on the big screen with messages from Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. The video ended with Nick Kyrgios, whom Hewitt has mentored in the past six months, declaring the two-time Grand Slam champion to still be the best player in Australia and suggesting he reconsider his retirement.

Naturally, it had to be asked in the press conference if the 34-year-old Hewitt was having any second thoughts about hanging up his racquets.

With his three children, Ava, Mia and Cruz seated beside him, Hewitt responded, “No, I’ve been set on it. I got the most out of my body. I’ve pushed myself to the limit. I look forward to the next phase in terms of work, helping these next guys coming through, including the likes of Nick.”

Indeed, it was very much a family affair as Hewitt bid a fond farewell to professional tennis on Thursday evening, bowing out in the Australian Open second round against David Ferrer. The Adelaide native was joined on court afterwards by his children, who had been watching with their mother, Bec, in the stands, and explained they had been a large part of why he had continued to play for as long as he did.

Read: Hewitt Bows Out

Read & Watch: Lleyton Hewitt – The Game Changer

“Especially the past few years, they’ve actually been able to come to tournaments and remember it,” said Hewitt. “They’re going to have lifelong memories of being out there with me and Cruz hitting with the likes of Federer, Nadal, Murray, these guys. It’s pretty cool.

“It’s probably pushed me to play that little bit longer to enjoy it so they could get something out of it, as well. Cruz, the past couple years, he came on a little boys trip to a couple of different tournaments. It’s been nice.”

Hewitt has spent the past 12 months building up to this moment, since announcing last year that his 20^th successive Australian Open would be his last tournament.

The right-hander may have only won four matches last year, but he has enjoyed a special farewell tour, which saw him lead Australia to the Davis Cup semi-finals – where he played a memorable doubles rubber alongside Sam Groth against the Murray brothers – and go out to great ovation at Wimbledon, the US Open and a special on-court ceremony at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals.

His final bow fittingly came on Rod Laver Arena, where he has enjoyed some of the most momentous wins and biggest battles of his career – not least a semi-final victory over Andy Roddick in 2005.

“I’ve been very fortunate that I’ve had such a great career that I had the opportunity to go out on my terms,” said Hewitt. “A lot of great sporting athletes don’t have that opportunity. Especially if you play in a team environment where a coach makes a decision whether you’re going to play or not and sometimes where you finish your career.

“I actually had the ball in my court in a lot of ways to do that here at the Australian Open. I feel really pleased about that.

“It was an unbelievable atmosphere out there,” continued Hewitt, who brought the crowd to its feet on more than one occasion with a final flourish. “A couple of the roars during the match tonight were as loud as I’ve ever played in front of. I was getting goosebumps at times. Obviously just watching the video and hearing those great players talk about you in that light was pretty emotional.

“Especially when I got back in the locker room, I guess that hits you a little bit more then. When I’m with my close friends and coaching staff that have helped me so much out. It’s sort of a strange feeling because you’re obviously disappointed not to keep going, but obviously proud of everything we’ve done as well.”

The journey is not quite over for Hewitt. Before he fully assumes his role as Australia’s Davis Cup captain, there is at least one more match left to play: the men’s doubles second round with Sam Groth. The Australians play another homegrown player, John Peers, and his Finnish partner, Henri Kontinen, on Friday.

“I saw Grothy in the locker room and he was already asking about practice tomorrow and warming up tomorrow!” said Hewitt. So the retirement celebrations tonight won’t be too exuberant then? “No, I might have a quiet beer. That’s it.”

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Lleyton Hewitt Farewell Presser Australian Open 2016

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

Lleyton Hewitt Farewell Presser Australian Open 2016

Jan212016

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Hewitt Bids A Fond Farewell

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

Hewitt Bids A Fond Farewell

Jan212016

Australian’s career ended by David Ferrer

The curtain came down on Lleyton Hewitt’s illustrious career on Thursday night in Melbourne as David Ferrer defeated the former World No. 1 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 in the second round of the Australian Open. Hewitt was competing in his 20^th successive Australian Open.

As expected, the 34-year-old Hewitt left it all out on the court, but the No. 8-ranked Ferrer held off the Aussie’s challenge to claim victory in two hours and 32 minutes on Rod Laver Arena. Hewitt was watched from his box by his family, Tony Roche and Thanasi Kokkinakis among others.

“He was too good tonight,” Hewitt said in his on-court interview. “He’s a Top 8 player in the world, couple of times a semi-finalist here. He plays extremely well in these conditions and is at the top of his game at the moment.

“I came out and gave everything I had like always. I left nothing in the locker room. That’s something I can always be proud of. My whole career I’ve always given 100 per cent. I love coming out here and competing. It’s never hard to come out playing in front of such great spectators every time I play out here on Rod Laver Arena. It’s like a second home for me and I’m just so fortunate to have this opportunity 20 years in a row.

Read & Watch: Hewitt Takes Stock In Final Presser

“It’s a weird emotion; I don’t think it will fully set in for a couple of days’ time. As I’ve always said, I’m such a competitor, I try and push myself all the time to get the most out of myself. Obviously it was in the back of my mind coming into every match this week, but I have had a fantastic last month. I feel honoured to have this support and this love from these crowds. It means so much to me. I’ve had so much success and big matches on this court; I feel fortunate to finish here.”

The Adelaide native did not go down without a fight. Leading by a set, Ferrer was on the verge of taking a double-break lead in the second set. But Hewitt saved two break points in the seventh game and almost recouped the break in a marathon eighth game, which saw Ferrer save seven break points.

Hewitt finally broke the Ferrer serve in the sixth game of the third set, levelling up at 3-3, much to the delight of the fans. But it was to be his final hurrah, as Ferrer broke again in the following game before closing out victory. In their exchange at the net, Ferrer asked Hewitt if they could swap shirts after leaving the court. The Spaniard goes on to face Steve Johnson on Saturday.

Speaking to Jim Courier for the host broadcaster afterwards, Ferrer admitted, “I was nervous because it’s a different day. Finally I won the match, but if I’d lost, it might have been my last match! He gave a very good performance. He’s one of the best players in history. I have a shirt signed by him from seven years ago, the only shirt from another player I have in my house.

“It’s a sad day, because Lleyton is finishing his career. He’s an idol for me and an amazing player. In my career, tonight is going to be very special for me, playing in Lleyton’s last match. The match was tough. Lleyton fought until the last ball. He’s unbelievable. He deserves everything coming.”

Hewitt remains in the doubles at Melbourne Park, competing alongside Sam Groth.

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Roger and Tecau Talk About Life at The Top

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

Roger and Tecau Talk About Life at The Top

Jan212016

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Former BBC commentator Williams dies

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

Former BBC television and radio tennis commentator Gerald Williams has died at the age of 86.

The Welshman was part of BBC Sport’s coverage from Wimbledon along with the corporation’s ex-presenter Des Lynam.

“Gerry was one of the finest tennis commentators of our time,” said Barbara Slater, director of BBC Sport.

“His famous Wimbledon commentary and his on-screen partnership with Des Lynam will be remembered with fondness by everyone at BBC Sport.”

She added: “He was a man of great talent and will be sadly missed.”

BBC Sport tennis correspondent Russell Fuller described Williams as “one of the great BBC tennis voices and personalities”.

BBC Sport presenter Sue Barker said: “I always admired his style and humour and was thrilled when he asked me to be his co-commentator many times.

“He was always so helpful and encouraging and I knew I was learning from the very best.”

She added: “We remained close friends on and off air – dinners with Gerry were always full of laughter and his love of tennis was infectious.

“He was a wonderful commentator and broadcaster, but above all a great friend.”

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Bob and Mike Bryan Pull Switcheroo at Australian Open 2016

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

Bob and Mike Bryan Pull Switcheroo at Australian Open 2016

Jan212016

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Hewitt makes emotional farewell

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

Australian Open
Venue: Melbourne Park Dates: 18-31 January
Coverage: Live radio and text commentary on all Andy Murray matches. Listen to Tennis Breakfast on Radio 5 live sports extra and the BBC Sport website from 07:00 GMT every day.

Lleyton Hewitt has played the last singles match of his tennis career, losing to David Ferrer in the second round of the Australian Open.

Former world number one Hewitt, who won two Grand Slam titles, was beaten 6-2 6-4 6-4 by the Spaniard.

“I left nothing in the locker room. My whole career I’ve given 100%,” said the 34-year-old Australian.

“I love coming out here and competing. I’ve been so fortunate to have that opportunity 20 years in a row.”

Hewitt, who won 30 singles tour titles, was victorious at the US Open in 2001 and Wimbledon in 2002 and also helped his home country win the Davis Cup twice – in 1999 and 2003.

“Playing for Australia has always been my biggest honour,” added Hewitt, in an emotional interview at Rod Laver Arena.

“I feel honoured to have had this support and this love from this crowd. It means so much for me.

“I’ve had so much success in big matches on this court and I feel fortunate to finish here. It’s the perfect place to finish.”

Despite ending his singles career, Hewitt has at least one more match to play before becoming captain of Australia’s Davis Cup team.

He partners countryman Sam Groth against Finland’s Henri Kontinen and Australia’s John Peers in a second-round men’s doubles match on Friday.

‘You were an idol of mine’

Some of the biggest names in tennis paid tribute to Hewitt.

Roger Federer: “Thank you for everything you have done for tennis. I’ve loved every moment. I’ve enjoyed listening to you as a commentator as well, and I wish you all the best now with your family.”

Rafael Nadal: “I have always had something special with you. You are a big inspiration of my tennis and my mentality. I think your love and passion for this sport is a great inspiration for the next generation too. Thank you very much.”

Andy Murray: “You were an idol of mine when I was growing up and you’ve always been so nice to me and helpful on tour and I really appreciate that. Enjoy your retirement, it is well deserved. Good luck mate.

Nick Kyrgios: “You’ve taught all us young kids a lot so hopefully you’ll still be hanging around. I just want to repeat what I’ve been saying to you: Don’t go mate, you’re playing such a high level of tennis, you’re definitely still the best player in Australian tennis.”

Ferrer, who will next meet American Steve Johnson, said: “It’s a sad day because Lleyton is finishing his career. He’s an amazing player. It’s a pleasure to play against him in his last match.

“He’s such a fighter until the last ball. He deserves all the tributes – he is one of the best players in history.

“I never had idols but he is one for me. I have a T-shirt signed by him from seven years ago. I have a museum in my house and that is in it – it’s the only T-shirt of a tennis player I have.”

Hewitt’s career – the highlights

Qualifies for the Australian Open in January 1997, a month before his 16th birthday, the youngest qualifier in tournament history.
Captures his first title, at his home town of Adelaide, over fellow Australian Jason Stoltenberg in 1998 after stunning Andre Agassi in the semi-finals.
Becomes the youngest ever world number one aged 20 and nine months in 2001, breaking the 69-year-old record set by American Wimbledon champion Ellsworth Vines, aged 21, in 1932.
Wins his first Grand Slam title at the 2001 US Open, beating Pete Sampras 7-6 (7-4) 6-1 6-1 in the final.
Crowned Wimbledon champion a year later, crushing Argentina’s David Nalbandian 6-1 6-3 6-2 in the final.
Member of two Australian Davis Cup-winning teams, over Spain in 2003 and France in 1999. He played in 41 ties, winning 58 singles and doubles matches for his country between 1999-2015, an Australian record.

Analysis

Russell Fuller – BBC Radio 5 live tennis correspondent

“Hewitt had seven break back points to level the second set at 4-4, but Ferrer saved them all, and belief in a trademark Hewitt fightback all but disappeared.

“The 34-year-old’s final set was not without some champagne moments – improbably chasing down a drop shot and dinking the return crosscourt for a winner will live long in the memory – but Ferrer is not the sort to offer anything in the way of encouragement.

“Hewitt squeezed every last drop out of his career, and his injury ravaged frame: he will retire as a Wimbledon and US Open champion, a former world number one – and a national treasure.”

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In-form Azarenka makes progress

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

Australian Open
Venue: Melbourne Park Dates: 18-31 January
Coverage: Live radio and text commentary on all Andy Murray matches. Listen to Tennis Breakfast on Radio 5 live sports extra and the BBC Sport website from 07:00 GMT.

Two-time champion Victoria Azarenka gave further evidence she is a title contender at the Australian Open with a swift win in the second round.

The Belarusian, champion in 2012 and 2013, beat Danka Kovinic of Montenegro 6-1 6-2 and will next face unseeded Japanese teenager Naomi Osaka.

Third seed Garbine Muguruza beat Kirsten Flipkens of Belgium 6-4 6-2.

Fourth seed Stan Wawrinka breezed past Radek Stepanek 6-2 6-3 6-4 and eighth seed David Ferrer beat Lleyton Hewitt.

It was the final singles match of Australian Hewitt’s career.

‘I feel good’

Azarenka’s victory followed her dominant ‘double bagel’ 6-0 6-0 first-round win against Belgian Alison van Uytvanck, and sent another warning to the likes of defending champion Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova.

After a turbulent two years battling injuries, the 14th seed came into the tournament on the back of winning the Brisbane International.

“I think I’m feeling in the best shape body-wise, spirit-wise, everything-wise. You know, my team around me too,” said the 26-year-old.

“If you think about it, it’s my 12th year being here. Almost half of my life. It’s a long time. I still feel young and I think I still have a lot more years to play.”

‘I was really shaking’

There was a lengthy delay on Rod Laver Arena during the first match of the day – Ana Ivanovic’s 6-3 6-3 win over Anastasija Sevastova.

Ivanovic, beaten finalist in 2008, was leading 4-3 in the first set when medical personnel rushed to help a spectator who had fallen on the stairs in the upper level of the 15,000-seat stadium. The players stayed on the court during the break, and were given regular updates from tournament officials.

“I felt really bad,” said Ivanovic, the 20th seed. “I was really shaking, because the sound of the lady falling was really loud.

“It just really didn’t sound so good. It was actually good that we had to wait a little bit because I was really shaking, because I could imagine and it was not so nice.

“Then they told us she was bleeding, so I hope she’s well.”

Tournament organisers said the woman was treated in the stadium before being taken by stretcher for observation and more treatment.

Who else went through?

Fernando Verdasco, who beat fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal in the first round, lost 4-6 6-3 6-3 7-6 (7-4) to Dudi Sela of Israel.

Canada’s 13th seed Milos Raonic advanced to the third round by beating Tommy Robredo 7-6 (7-6) 7-6 (7-5) 7-5, breaking the Spaniard’s serve to win with the only service break of the match.

Tenth seed John Isner and 23rd seed Gael Monfils were other winners.

In the women’s draw, American 15th seed Madison Keys, a semi-finalist last year, battled her way past Kazakhstan’s Yaroslava Shvedova 6-7 (4-7) 6-3 6-3 and next faces Ivanovic.

Czech Denisa Allertova beat German 30th seed Sabine Lisicki 6-3 2-6 6-4 and will play Britain’s Johanna Konta next.

‘Like a dream come true’

China’s Shuai Zhang who beat second seed Simona Halep in the first round, continued her giant-killing run by knocking out world number 33 Alize Cornet 6-3 6-3.

The qualifier, ranked 133 in the world, arrived in Melbourne having lost 14 consecutive first-round matches at major tournaments.

“Maybe because I lost 14 times, it gave me a lot more energy to work hard,” she said.

“I don’t want to check the cell phone right now because there are so many messages. I’m so tired right now. I don’t have time to check.”

Murray knocks out flatmate Marray

Jamie Murray set aside domestic loyalties to make progress in the men’s doubles with Brazil’s Bruno Soares.

The pair, seeded seventh after winning in Sydney last week, beat Britain’s Jonny Marray and Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi of Pakistan 6-3 6-4.

Murray and Marray have been sharing a flat in Melbourne, along with fellow British Davis Cup player Colin Fleming.

“I think I’m partly to blame for jinxing it as on the morning of the draw, I said ‘I hope we don’t get a derby match in the flat,'” Fleming told BBC Radio 5 live. “But we’ve all played enough matches to get on and be professional.

“Jamie and Bruno look very composed coming off the back of winning in Sydney and will have high hopes here.”

Quotes of the day

“I just wanted to qualify. That’s all I was expecting. But I don’t really like thinking about it too much because it freaks me out.” Japanese qualifier Naomi Osaka, appearing in a Grand Slam for the first time, on setting up a third-round meeting with Azarenka by beating 18th seed Elina Svitolina 6-4 6-4.

“Sign the camera? I’ve never done that before,” Germany’s world number 97 Laura Siegemund talks about tennis’ traditional post-match ritual after beating former world number one Jelena Jankovic 3-6 7-6(5) 6-4.

“I gave him a hug… at the end he was a bit loose,” Monfils said after beating fellow Frenchman Nicolas Mahut 7-5 6-4 6-1.

“The dab. D-a-b,” said Azarenka about the victory salute she has displayed after winning her first two matches at the Australian Open. It entails leaning into a bended elbow, as if sneezing, and raising the other arm up straight. “It comes from American football. “I think it’s really fun. It’s entertaining. I love doing it.”

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VIDEO: Murray delights in Groth win

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

World number two Andy Murray beats Australia’s Sam Groth 6-0 6-4 6-1 to reach the third round of the Australian Open in Melbourne – and says he was “pleased” to stem the home favourite’s fightback.

READ MORE: Johanna Konta beats China’s Zheng Saisai

You can see live radio and text commentary on all Andy Murray matches on the BBC Sport website and also listen to Tennis Breakfast on Radio 5 live Sports Extra and the BBC Sport website from 07:00 GMT every day.

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VIDEO: Konta enjoying entertaining crowd

Posted: Jan 21, 2016

British number one Johanna Konta says it is a “real pleasure” to play in front of a sizeable crowd as she makes it through to the the third round of the Australian Open with a 6-2 6-3 win over China’s Zheng Saisai in Melbourne.

READ MORE: Andy Murray thrashes big-serving Sam Groth

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