Local tennis player, Lloyd Glasspool aims to go one better at Tipton Sports Academy this week, after he came runner-up in the International Tennis Federation (ITF) event in 2015.
The tournament features previous winner, Marcus Willis, who famously lost to Roger Federer in last year’s Wimbledon second round, with the inclusion of other British talent such as; Jay Clarke, Jonny O’Mara and 2015 champion Neil Pauffley.
There is a worldwide feel to the event, with Laurynas Grigelis taking the number one seed position, after earning Lithuania victory in the Davis Cup last weekend against Madagascar.
Today began the final round of qualification and France’s Rayane Roumane defeated Brit, Joshua Paris 6-4 6-4 to secure his place in the main draw.
The theme of British players losing to our European counterparts was consistent as the day unfolded. Italian, Simone Roncalli beat world number 797, Farris Fathi Gosea in straight sets and his fellow compatriot, Pietro Licciardi finished victor against, Oliver Hudson.
Birmingham born, Luke Oakley fell at the final hurdle of qualifying for the main draw, losing to German, Vincent Jaensch-Mueller 7-5 6-3.
The tournament culminates on Saturday 11th February with the singles final beginning at 11am. There will be courtside seating at the venue with free entry for all ages.