Laura Robson unhappy with decision to play after AEGON Classic exit in Birmingham drizzle

Jun 11 2010 by Brian Dick, Birmingham Mail

BRITISH starlet Laura Robson admitted she was ‘wary’ of playing on a greasy Court One as her AEGON Classic campaign came to an unhappy end.

The 16-year-old was defeated 7-5, 6-4 by No.3 seed Yanina Wickmayer amid scenes of mild controversy at the rain hit Edgbaston Priory Club.

For the second day running the Centre Court surface, on which Robson was supposed to meet her Belgian opponent, was rendered unplayable because of inadequate covers.

That forced the match on to an outside court, with which both Wickmayer and Robson expressed their displeasure as the tournament referee was called to adjuducate on its suitability.

Both players slipped and slid as the drizzle fell and, although they appeared reluctant to play on at one stage, the former Wimbledon junior champion just about stopped short of criticising the decision.

“It didn’t really seem like either of us was moving that much, I think we were both a bit wary,” Robson admitted.

“I thought I started off quite well with my serve but it was tough conditions. It was very slippy but it was the same for both of us so I can’t complain. We stopped for a bit but the referee decided it was best for us to keep playing.”

Indeed Robson felt one of the key differences between her and Wickmayer was the fact the world No.16 dealt with the distractions better. “She is really intense on court and that really worked to her advantage.”