Heather Watson — Another rising star?

Saint Peter Port - Next to Andy Murray, Laura Robson is probably the biggest thing and the next rising star in these islands, but Heather Watson is another name to watch.

So far, 2012 has been rather a good year for British tennis. First, a certain Mr Murray was runner up at Wimbledon, then he went on to win gold at the Olympics, as well as the silver in the mixed doubles in which he was partnered by Laura Robson. Then he won his first grand slam title, at the US Open, where Robson also turned in an impressive performance. Which brings us to the Island of Guernsey where the current austerity crisis was solved in the 1820s. Today though it is best known as a tax haven and for its cows. And after this weekend as the birthplace of Heather Watson, because the 20 year old has just lifted the Japan Open, coming back from 5-4 down in the third set and saving no less than four match points. You can read all about her on her own website, which includes her results from 2008, the year Laura Robson won the Wimbledon Girls title. It has to be said, some of these have been far from impressive, including a 6-0, 6-2 thrashing in the first round at Wimbledon this year. Statistics can be deceptive though, at Wimbledon she lost to one of the best players in the world, and at just 20 years old, she is bridging the chasm between the girls' and womens' games. Her fine victory in Japan is more an indication of where she is going rather than where she has been, and the manner in which she did it can only boost her confidence. Expect to see her name on another trophy before she turns 21.