Oratory’s Watson continues to impress on real tennis national stage

ORATORY School student Archie Watson continued to impress on the real tennis court this summer, cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s most promising young talents with second place in the Junior British Open.

Watson, who earlier this year successfully defended his junior French Open championship title, achieved his latest result at the prestigious Queen’s Club in London, where he finished runner-up at the junior British Open — one of the most competitive events on the junior circuit. Facing a field packed with the best young players, Watson showed composure and consistency throughout the tournament.

His path to the final included a series of commanding performances, highlighted by a hard-fought victory over Lazlo Garson, last year’s runner-up in the Junior World Championship, as well as a confident win against Algie Nottingham, the tournament’s number two seed. In the final, Watson was beaten in a close contest by the current junior World Champion, Max Warner.

In a tightly fought contest, Watson started well and showcased his impressive power game before the solid floor game of Warner ultimately prevailed.

He said: “I have been very lucky to be coached by the best ever real tennis players, Oratory pros Rob and Claire Fahey, who have helped me improve since I started playing the game three years ago. Playing at Queen’s Club was a real privilege.”

Claire Fahey, head of Oratory Racquets and current Ladies Real Tennis World Champion, said: “This was another hugely positive step for Archie. He has cemented himself among the best junior players and should take a lot of confidence from his performance.”

This autumn, The Oratory’s sports facilities will be further enhanced with padel courts and an all-weather pitch.