TENNIS CHAMPIONS.

Taranaki Daily News, 22 January 1921, Page 5

TENNIS CHAMPIONS.

AMERICANS IN SYDNEY. BRILLIANT EXHIBITION. By Telegraph.—Press Assn —Copyright.♦ Received Jan. 21, 11.25 p.m. Sydney, Jan. 21. jThe American tennis champions met the Australians in two singles and one doubles matches at Double Bay to-day, in the presence of several thousand people, and in fine, hot weather. Washburn and Hawkes opened the programme. The Australian effectually employing a swerving service. Washburn experienced great difficulty in gauging distance, but displayed excellent judgment in moving into position at critical moments. He treated the spectators to a fine display of backhand and also invaluable cross-court driving.

Johnston was at first uncertain, and allowed Heath to gain a lead, but quickly gave the crowd a glimpse of his splendid forehand drive, which, he employed with great severity and accuracy. His strokes were characterised by exceptional force, smashing frequently with cannon-shot velocity. In the doubles Tilden and Johnston proved veritable speed merchants. The contest was a brilliant exposition, bristling with thrilling rallies. Tilden immediately impressed the onlookers by his lightning services and killing returns. Both visitors directed play to O’Hara Wood in preference to Brookes, but Wood was in rare fettle, and responded nobly. At times he was the star performer of the court, his volleying and smashing being of the highest order. Brookes was a real general, keen in anticipation, excellent in judgment, placing and playing for position, but his strokes lacked the fire of his vigorous opponents. The Americans appeared to have the first set won, but Australia drew level, six all, a stirring struggle ensuing to the end. The visitors eclipsed the local players in the remaining sets; Following are the scores: Washburn defeated Hawkes, 6—4, 6—4. Johnston defeated Heath, 6 —3, 6 —3. Tilden and Johnston defeated O’Hara Wood, and Brookes, B—lo, 6—2, 6—4, 6—21 —Aus. and N.Z. Cable Assn.