Heather Watson’s first-round exit completes Britain’s miserable French Open

Watson was beaten 7-6 (4) 6-4 by France’s Fiona Ferro

Eleanor Crooks
Tuesday 29 September 2020 13:15 EDT
Comments
Andy Murray: Resurfacing - trailer

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.

Britain's miserable French Open was complete when Heather Watson joined her compatriots in losing in the opening round.

After just three days of the tournament, no British singles players remain, with Watson joining Andy Murray, Johanna Konta, Dan Evans, Cameron Norrie and Liam Broady by going down 7-6 (4) 6-4 to France's Fiona Ferro.

Watson was an early break up in both sets in damp, cool conditions at Roland Garros but was unable to hold on to her advantage.

The British number two had a brilliant start to 2020, capped by her fourth WTA title in Acapulco in February, but has not won a match since the tour restarted in August.

That lack of victories perhaps played a part at the biggest moments, with Ferro winning more of the important points in what was a very close match.

Watson had beaten the Frenchwoman twice in 2020 and moved into a 3-1 lead but back came Ferro and it was Watson who had to save three set points at 5-6.

A tie-break was her reward but Watson paid the price for a series of errors and could not build on a 2-0 lead in the second set.

PA

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in