Tennis: The solidity of Bailey allows hurried Henman no chance: Former world No 1 continues her rehabilitation as three Britons reach semi-finals in Bristol Challenger
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.CHRIS BAILEY brushed aside a pounding headache to sweep into the semi-finals of the men's singles at the Bristol Challenger Trophy yesterday. Bailey will today face the British No 1 and top seed, Jeremy Bates, who yesterday beat Mark Petchey 7-6, 7-5.
Bailey needed painkillers midway through yesterday's second set to help him cope with his discomfort. 'It was a little irritating,' the 25-year-old British No 3 said. Yet he gave Tim Henman, an 18-year-old from Oxfordshire playing in his first tournament at Challenger level, little room for manoeuvre as he marched to a 6-2, 6-1 victory in only 49 minutes.
'Tim rushed a bit too much and let me get into a rhythm but I think he has a bright future,' Bailey said. 'But I don't think I did much wrong today. It was a pretty solid performance.'
Bailey revealed that he is set to sign another sponsorship deal on Monday to add to the backing of Schweppes and Chrysalis, who came forward with support for him following his stirring Centre Court battle with Goran Ivanisevic at this year's Wimbledon.
'The deals have secured my future for as long as I want to play,' Bailey said. 'But I have to keep it in perspective and remember that I lost the match against Goran.'
Chris Wilkinson, the second seed, also continued the form he showed at Wimbledon when he overcame the local challenge of Nick Gould, who was celebrating his 21st birthday, 6-3, 6-2.
In the semi-finals, Wilkinson will face the fourth seed, Mark Knowles of the Bahamas, who defeated the American, Alex Reichel, 6-2, 6-3.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments