Ace Neil Pauffley powers to Tipton victory
Neil Pauffley was the victor in an all-British singles final at the 2015 Aegon GB Pro-Series Tipton, as he beat Lloyd Glasspool 6-4 7-6 (10-8) in a hard-hitting two-setter.
Glasspool hammered down 12 aces in his bid for the title, but Pauffley's accuracy in a nail-biting tie break put paid to his hopes of being crowned champion.
Speaking after winning his first ITF Futures singles title since 2013, and his first claimed in Great Britain, Neil Pauffley told the crowd it felt fantastic to be back on top. As well as lifting the trophy, presented by the Mayor of Sandwell Councillor Barbara Price, Pauffley gained 27 world ranking points.
Gracious in defeat, Lloyd Glasspool spoke highly of the atmosphere at Tipton Sports Academy over the tournament's finals days, as pupils from local schools came along to cheer on the players and see the first-class tennis in action. Both players will now head to Bath to compete in another ITF £10,000 Pro Circuit event.
Aegon GB Pro-Series Tipton tournament director, Rosie Page, said "We have been treated to fantastic play by all competitors this week, with the tennis in today's final of an exceptionally high standard, it will be exciting to follow the progress of the competitors.
"It has been a pleasure to stage this event on behalf of the Lawn Tennis Association in partnership with Sandwell Leisure Trust and the ITF, and I wish all of the players the very best of luck as they leave Tipton for their respective tournaments."
