Watson and Schutz win doubles crown

THE Oratory School was celebrating last week after two of its students won the U18 National Schools’ Real Tennis Double Championships at The Queen’s Club in London.

Archie Watson and Max Schutz competed against some of the country’s strongest junior players, putting in a solid performance in their quarter-final to reach the last four.

Their semi-final match against Radley College 2nds saw the duo put in a composed performance.

Watson controlled the back of the court effectively, while Schutz’s sharp volleying in the galleries provided a strong attacking edge. Their complementary styles gave them a well-rounded approach, allowing them to take control of the match and book their place in the final with a 6-3, 6-1 victory.

The final against Radley College’s first pair was a closely contested battle.

Watson and Schutz edged the first set 6-4 and built a strong 5-3 lead in the second, putting them within touching distance of the title. Radley fought back well, levelling the set at 5-5 to force a tense deciding game.

The Oratory pair held their nerve, playing some of their best tennis to close out the set and secure the title.

Claire Fahey, head of racquets at The Oratory and the reigning ladies’ world champion, said: “This was an outstanding performance from the boys. It is the first time the school has won this title, and I am very proud of their achievement.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for the boys to play at such a prestigious venue and to win the competition was just reward for their standard of play.”

For Watson, this win adds to his previous success at the U16 national doubles. Later this term, he will look to defend the French Open U19 title he won last year at Fontainebleau Palace.