Mixed Finals Day sees instant classic
The 2026 Bounds Green Tennis tournament season drew to a close on a beautiful September day, with a large crowd witnessing some stellar tennis.
The first match of the day saw Renée & Mike put in a dominant performance at the net to the defeat Asha & Danny. The match involved some great shot-making and close rallies, but ultimately the defending champions proved too strong.
The Mixed Plate competition involved high drama before the players even stepped on court. Cassie & Roberto were forced to withdraw on the morning of Finals Day, after Roberto badly injured his ankle. Get well soon Roberto!
Thankfully Mandy & Kenny, who had narrowly lost their semifinal, were able to step in and played their part brilliantly in a match for the ages. They got off to a fast start, winning the first set 6-4, but this match still had a long way to run. Emma & Steve faced a match point against them in the second set before dramatically turning round the match, winning the second set 7-5. The final set saw tension mount, with the teams trading breaks of serve. It looked as though the match was destined for a final set tiebreak before Emma & Steve's match playing experience finally told, winning the final set 7-5. All four players played some brilliant tennis, leaving the crowed wowed, and can be very proud of their efforts.
The result means that Steve becomes the first player in Bounds Green history to win the Plate Doubles Double (admittedly the Plate Doubles competitions have only been running for two years). Renée also secures a Doubles Double, winning both the Women's and Mixed main draw competitions.
There was also some virtual drama as the votes poured in for the Who Posed It Best? contest. Post-match selfies have become something of a Bounds Green tournament tradition and this year people went above and beyond with their creativity. In total, over 150 votes were cast and a clear winner emerged. Congratulations to Louise, Ryan, Cassie and Roberto for their winning effort.
They faced some stiff competition. You can view the entries that came in second, third and fourth places below:
2nd place: Abi, Marcus, Cassie & Roberto: If music be the sound of tennis, play on!
3rd place: Katie, Chan, Jane & Malcolm: Malcolm in his happy place
4th place: Katie, Chan, Karen & Steve: Jump!
Finals Day doesn't run without the efforts of club volunteers. Particular thanks to Ros and Michael for their expert umpiring and to Sue and Denise for running the bar and keeping the crowd well-lubricated.
Finally, a big thank you to everyone who has played in the tournaments, watched them or joined in the fun online. You are the people who make Bounds Green the fantastic club that it is. The tournaments will return in 2027!
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