* Under 24/Under 21 British Open (Dedanists) 2025

The U21s & U24s British Open was held once again at Middlesex University Real Tennis Club from Thursday 11th - Sunday 14th December 2025. We had an excellent entry with the top 4 seeds in the U24s all being single figure players and a multitude of young talent coming through. In the U21s Final, number one seed Bertie Vallat took on number 3 seed James Medlow (Queens/ Seacourt). Medlow had upset the seedings in his semi final victory over Henry Henman having come out the winner 6/5 6/1, this meant he went in to the final with high hopes and confidence. The match started very well for Bertie Vallat who hit his stride from the start and never looked back. He was steady on the floor, moved efficiently and hit targets when required. Despite all of James' efforts Bertie had an answer for everything and came out victorious 6/1 6/2 to retain his title.

The Under 24's Doubles final was the match of the day. This time Bertie Vallat was partnered by Will Flynn (Seacourt) to make a formidable partnership and command the number 1 seeding. Their opponents were the combination of Henry Henman (Oratory) and his partner James Medlow as the number 2 seeds. The match was fast paced with exceptional rallies and wonderful volleys. The first set was a neck to neck affair with games shared all the way up 5 games all. This is where Henman and Medlow were able to finally take charge and breakthrough taking the decisive game with some inspirational tennis. They then made a quick start to the second set taking an immediate 2/0 lead which they would go on to protect until the score was 5/3. Vallat and Flynn kept fighting as they had throughout the match and took the next game to make it 4/5. Henman and Medlow held their nerve very well at this point and found some accurate forcing to finally end the resistance of their number 1 seeded opponents, they deservedly took the set and match 6/5 6/4. 

The last match of the tournament was the U24's singles Final. It was a repeat of last year's final where Bertie Vallat once again took on Henry Henman. Bertie Vallat quickly put the disappointment of the doubles final behind him and started with great purpose playing some excellent and accurate tennis. Henman also started well and showed his great talent as the first few games were shared. Vallat however was relentless from this point and played immaculate tennis from both ends of the court. He reeled off game after game seeming to have an answer for everything that Henman threw at him. He went on to take a convincing 6/1 6/2 victory. This meant that Bertie was able to defend both his U21s and U24s singles championships, a very fine achievement.

We thank the T&RA and the Dedanists Society for again generously sponsoring the event as well as helping the players with their lunches and accommodation throughout. 

Will Burns & Jack Carter (MURTC Professionals)