Dutch delight for wheelchair tennis star Lauren

Worthing wheelchair tennis star Lauren Jones came out on top in the recent ITF Series tournament in Holland.
Worthing wheelchair tennis talent Lauren Jones secured a tournament win in HollandWorthing wheelchair tennis talent Lauren Jones secured a tournament win in Holland
Worthing wheelchair tennis talent Lauren Jones secured a tournament win in Holland

Jones, 21, who was top seed for the event, did not disappoint as she secured her second win of 2016.

Despite being the youngest player in the competition, Jones cruised to the crown without dropping a set.

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Speaking of her competition win, the Worthing talent said: “It was nice to string a few wins together and win a tournament once again.

“I’ve had some real difficulty with injuries in recent times, which makes winning a tournament that much sweeter.

“I felt I played really well in the event and to not drop a set on the way to winning was a massive plus for me.”

Jones’ next challenge will see her compete in the coveted British Open Super Series event in Nottingham later this month.

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As well as being in the singles draw, Jones will team up with double Wimbledon wheelchair champion Gordon Reid.

She added: “I know it’s going to be a tough tournament but my win in Holland will help me.

“Teaming up with Gordon in the mixed doubles will be another great experience as well.

“He’s just off the back of winning both the singles and doubles title at Wimbledon so that’s going to be enjoyable.

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“I played with him last year and to do so again is great. Some great players will be playing, so I know I’ll have to be at my best.”

A tough few years for Jones saw her ranking plummet but a resurgence in the past few months has seen her back up to 40 in the world.

Jones will not be part of Great Britain’s Paralympic tennis team, however, with only the top 26 in the rankings gaining automatic entry.

Worthing’s wheelchair star admits it is tough to take but will be heading out to Rio for the experience.

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Jones said: “It’s been a really tough time. I was number one ranked junior then a few injuries have set me back a little.

“I worked hard and was up in the top 25 in the world but then my ranking went right the way down. I’ve missed out on the Paralympics this time but I’m going to travel out for the experience.

“I’m still unsure whether that will be with the team or alone, whatever it is I know it will be brilliant to be out in Brazil.

“I’m targeting Tokyo, so to have the chance to soak up the atmosphere and be in the arena is fantastic.”

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