by Neil Smith
The 2022 Women’s U.S. Open got off to an excellent start on Friday and barely took a breath until the last ball was struck Sunday afternoon. Fifteen players competed in the singles and eight pairs in the Doubles. All but one U.S. Club was represented – and one special player traveling from overseas, with many of the players competing in their first U.S. Open (two of them being only fourteen years old).
The early rounds of the singles went to form, which set up the semi-finals between the current World Champion Claire Fahey and Helen Grassi Vest. Helen put up a valiant fight and enjoyed many exciting rallies but could not break down the World Champion’s amazing defenses. The second semi produced arguably the most competitive match of the weekend, between Xanthe Ranger and Freddie Adam. Xanthe took the first set and was in control of the second. Still, Freddie mounted a determined comeback, took the second set 6/4, and powered through the third 6/1. The final saw the World Champions’ skills on full display, from her incredible court coverage to her technically excellent stroke play. All those in the Dedans were truly inspired, especially the young upstarts from Tuxedo, Hazel Christensen, and Calliope Yannuzzi, who were told that Claire’s handicap at 14yrs was about the same as theirs.
The Doubles saw well-contested matches early on, with the seeds making it to the semi’s. The number one seeds prevailed in their semi, with some excellent points being played by Kate Villiers and Victoria Scott. The second semi saw Xanthe’s experience showing through with precise strokes and was backed up by her new doubles partner Megan Hayes defending the galleries with well-timed volleys to the base of the tambour. The final was set, and Claire and Freddy wasted no time dictating the play, attacking the Dedans, and peppering the Grille. Xanthe and Megan battled for every point, which produced many great rallies. Still, they could not withstand the relentless pressure of the experienced duo, so Claire & Freddy galloped home victorious!
The back draw saw a full complement of 8 players battling it out in a ten-game pro set format. Youth prevailed, with Jacqueline Faulise playing off against Hazel Christensen in the final. Hazel forged ahead early and never looked back, taking the match 10/2.
A special Thank you to Ryan Carey for streaming the event, which as always, was superb. Also, thank you to Janice Pearson for her tireless work over the weekend, keeping everything running smoothly and the competitors well-nourished and hydrated. Finally, thank you to Arthur Drane, Ken Forton, and the Tournament Committee for their help and support of the event. The event was great fun with Arthur’s ever-cheery, positive demeanor and Ken’s Pulitzer-level interviewing skills!
