Thank you, Anne!

Anne’s Story

Hi!

Wimbledon 2008 was probably the most enjoyable one I’ve ever competed in as I was in on merit for the first time and deserved my place in the draw. I got to live my dream and had the chance to play on Centre Court, and I won a match in each of the events I was in- singles, doubles and the mixed.

My first-round match in the singles was a tough battle against Vania King. I made hard work of it as to start off with I was overcome by nerves and all the pressure I put on myself to win. The first set didn’t go my way because of this, but I managed to regroup after a toilet break which looking back makes me laugh. When I went back out on to the tennis court for my second set, I started moving better and the tennis improved.

The following day after my singles win I had to play my doubles first-round match. My partner, Melanie South and I beat the higher-ranked Chinese pair in two close sets. Despite winning our doubles match, all everyone seemed to be asking me about was my next singles match against Venus Williams.

I had been looking forward to my match against Venus since I had walked off court after my previous singles match. She’s someone I’ve looked up to for so long and I was buzzing with excitement. I was nervous before the match as it was on Centre Court, a court I had never stepped foot on before, and it was a little bit daunting, But once I got my name on the scoreboard I soon settled down.

The first set was pretty close and I had so many opportunities to break her serve which could’ve given me the edge, but it didn’t quite happen for me. The second set wasn’t quite as close but overall I think I gave a good account of myself and I really enjoyed the experience. I think a lot of people thought I would be on and off the court in half an hour so - I think I proved them wrong!

My Wimbledon dream came to an end on the middle weekend of the Championships. Melanie and I lost a tight three-set doubles match which we were really gutted about and even now, neither of us wants to talk about it.

The support I received from everyone during the week was amazing. I had my family there for every match and I know they were really proud of me. They don’t get to watch me play very much so it means a lot to me when they’re there. Thanks to PartyBingo.com for being my sponsors during the Championships, and I hope you all enjoyed watching me play!

Anne