It was a second successive runner-up finish in the Berkshire Open for Tom Richards as top seed Alister Walker romped to a straight games victory over the Englishman in the final of the PSA World Tour International 35 event in its eighth year at Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, USA.
Walker, the world No18 from Botswana who survived a five-game semi-final battle against third seed Borja Golan which lasted well over two hours, was in surprisingly fresh form as he despatched his former compatriot 11-7, 11-7, 11-8.
The triumph marks the sixth title of Walker’s career – but the third since the 29-year-old former Englishman switched his allegiance to Botswana, his country of birth, last June.
“After last night’s brutal match with Borja, my body was really struggling and I didn’t expect much in the final – which probably worked in my favour because I was very relaxed against Tom in the final,” said Walker post-match. “Tom has been playing well and I am happy to see he has been picked for England and I am sure my old team mates will defend their (European) title. I wish them the best of luck.
“For me it is a real privilege to get Botswana its third PSA title – and I am hoping the results will help in our association’s attempts to re-energise the sport at home. In turn hopefully we can send a national team to the World Team Championships in France next year.”
Presentation picture shows Walker (second right) with runner-up Richards (second left)
Final:
[1] Alister Walker (BOT) bt [2] Tom Richards (ENG) 11-7, 11-8, 11-8 (44m)
