Last updated: 20/07/2012

Team GB Tennis pre-competition press conference

The Team GB Tennis squad held their pre-competition press conference today at Team GB House in Stratford, ahead of their participation in the London 2012 Olympic Games. In attendance were five of the eight Team GB players, Andy Murray, Jamie Murray, Anne Keothavong, Laura Robson and Elena Baltacha, who will begin competing on July 28 at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon.

Speaking about his participation in the London 2012 Olympic Games, British No.1 Andy Murray said: “I’m really excited about competing at Wimbledon for Team GB this summer. I remember Novak Djokovic winning bronze in Beijing and crying on the podium because it meant so much to him, and that’s how us tennis players feel when we’re representing our nations.

“The Wimbledon final was a tough loss, but I had a couple of days off to recover and practice has gone well since. Getting back on the court has helped and I’m feeling positive ahead of the Olympic competition coming up. I needed to make sure I got over the disappointment quickly as I really want to do well here.”

Elena Baltacha, who carried the Olympic tourch through Kent on Thursday commented: “This is very special for me because my Dad won a bronze medal in the 1980 Moscow Olympics and my Mum was picked to compete but she couldn’t go in the end because she had to look after my brother. It’s amazing for me to be an Olympian now and to continue this legacy in my family.

“Taking part in the Olympic Torch relay yesterday was truly amazing. I went through most of the day without crying, but once my flame was lit I basically burst into tears! It was such an amazing experience and something I’ll never forget.”

Anne Keothavong also added: “Having the Olympics here in London is going to be a once in a lifetime experience and competing in a Home Games will definitely be a highlight of my career. ”

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