Wimbledon local Hannah Klugman had a day to remember at her home Grand Slam after a maiden SW19 win in Junior Wimbledon.
Klugman, who is supported by the LTA’s Men’s & Women’s Programme, made her debut at the All England Club last year, losing in the opening round, and was back in first round action again this year against ninth seed Federica Urgesi.
The Italian is four years older than 14-year-old Klugman but the Brit was not fazed at all on her second Girls’ Singles appearance at the All England Club, producing a stunning performance to win 6-2 6-2 and set up a second round meeting against Malak El Allami.
She said: “It was a really good win – it’s my first top ten win I think. I think I played really well, I really enjoyed the crowd and the energy.
“I played it last year but obviously I think it was a bit better this year, having got the win. To play on Court 3 was incredible. I just really enjoyed it.
“I think I’ve just brought in a lot more experience. Last year I was a bit too nervous and didn’t really put my game out there on court. This year I just went out there and was like: ‘just go for it.’
“Also, my game has really improved, I’m taking on the ball. It’s all a lot better.”
Klugman was the final of 12 Brits to reach the second round of the junior events- the most since 2000.
The opportunity to play on Court 3 – one of Wimbledon’s biggest courts – made the experience an even sweeter run for Klugman, who lives just a five minute walk from the All England Club.
On a busy day of action at Wimbledon there was a strong crowd present to watch her incredible performance, making it well and truly a day to remember.
“It was incredible. I remember going to watch when I was younger, wishing one day I would be there. It’s incredible that I’m already there playing Court 3,” Klugman added.
“It’s still juniors, but I had my whole family supporting me. I just really enjoyed it.”
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