British wonder Ward marches on

02 July 2015 02:17

Great Britain can boast two men in Wimbledon's third round for the first time since 2002 after James Ward blasted past Jiri Vesely in four sets.

British number three Ward surrendered 65 places in the world rankings to his opponent but produced an accomplished showing to brush past the 21-year-old Czech 6-2 7-6 (7/4) 3-6 6-3.

Shortly after Andy Murray dispatched Robin Haase in straight sets, Ward completed his own triumph to hand Britain two men in Wimbledon's third round for the first time since the Tim Henman and Greg Rusedski era.

Victory for the other British hope Aljaz Bedene over Viktor Troicki, slated to appear last on Court 12, would send three home nation men into Wimbledon's third round for the first time since 1999.

Londoner Ward wholly dominated the first two sets for a commanding lead, only for Vesely to edge his way back in and elongate the contest.

World number 45 Vesely upset Ward's rhythm by battling back in the third set, not least through calling for the trainer three times and the doctor twice to deal with shoulder trouble.

Ward proved with his monster Davis Cup victory over John Isner as Britain beat the United States that he can mix it with the game's top stars, though, and channelled all that momentum again at SW19.

Davis Cup captain Leon Smith was in the stands to watch Ward push his case still further for the second singles spot in Britain's forthcoming quarter-final clash with France at Queen's Club.

Ward now has his best-ever Wimbledon return, and will bank £77,000 whatever happens next.

Far more important than the money for Ward though, was the chance to prove his real major tournament pedigree.

"Now it's done it's good because a lot of people will get off my back," Ward told the BBC after reaching Wimbledon's third round for the first time.

"I just can't put it into words; it's something I've wanted to do for a long time.

"The draw's opened up a little bit, you've got to take your chances when you can; hopefully I won't stop here and can carry on.

"I had a bit of a lapse in the third set, but I picked up and it was pleasing.

"I have a lot of belief in myself and a lot of people do out there as well.

"It's all come from Davis Cup matches where I've done very well, and hopefully it can continue."

Source: PA