Laid-back Luke Hooper believes home comforts fired him to an impressive first round win in the boys’ singles at Wimbledon.
The Bristol player, 18, looked assured and composed from the off as he beat Daniil Sarksian 6-3 3-6 6-3 on Court 5.
Hooper had several supporters from the West Country in attendance and went straight over to celebrate with them after booking his place in round two.
And speaking after his victory, the left-handed wildcard said: “I feel unbelievable.
“It was a tough match but I managed to get through it.
“I think from the start I settled better because I had some friends from Bristol, two old coaches, my current coach, mum and some LTA guys there too.
“Knowing some familiar people helped me form the start, whereas I don’t think he settled as well because he maybe didn’t have so many people here.
“It was really helpful.”
Hooper looked visibly more confident against Sarksian, 18, and secured the crucial break to clinch the first set 6-3.
But the Russian rallied to haul himself back level and tee up a nerve-jangling decider in front of a busy watching crowd.
Hooper always had home support on his side and held himself together to seal a last 32 date against either qualifier Gustavo Ribero de Almeida or 13th seed Amir Omarkhanov.
He added: “I’m taking it a game at a time – but I feel like I’ve been playing well recently.
“I’ll see how far I can go.”
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