Nottingham youngster Luke Bambridge notched up two of his best career results in Florida. Luke, 14, won both the singles and doubles titles in the prestigious Eddie Herr International Tennis Tournament. He brushed aside opponents from Pakistan, Brazil, China and USA ,all in straight sets, before prevailing in a thrilling three set final against Thai Kwiatkowski from the USA 2-6, 6-3,6-4. After a shower and short break Bambridge returned to the court with partner, Chris Pearce, to lift the doubles title after defeating Andres Cebezas and Jose Chamba Gomez, from Ecuador, 7-5, 6-0.
Bambridge has already experienced considerable success both domestically and internationally this year. He finished the year at number one in Britain after winning the AEGON Masters and finishing runner-up in the Junior National finals. Success abroad included a semi-final place at Tarbes, victory in the Fundamentum Talent Cup in Barcelona and European Winter Cup Team champions. Luke and partner Chris are also an undefeated pairing at home and abroad this year. This latest victory adds to the haul which includes the Junior National title.
However, life as a top young tennis player is hectic and there is no time for Luke to bask in his latest glory. Straight after his last match he, Chris and National Coach, Ian Hughes, made the four hour trip to Miami where they will compete in the Prince Cup and Orange Bowl. Hughes said: “Luke has performed well this week, but we need to maintain focus for two really big weeks ahead.” Luke and the rest of the British party should be back in the UK on Christmas Eve.
Luke will then spend a few days with his family before returning to training at the Mouratoglou Academy in Paris early in the New Year.