CIB Black Ball Open: Gilis Through After Tomlinson Retires

Belgium’s Tinne Gilis is through to the second round of the CIB Black Ball Open in Cairo after her opponent, England’s Millie Tomlinson, had to retire through injury.

The Englishwoman started the stronger of the two, but Gilis soon put her foot down in the first game, taking eight straight points before winning it 11-5.

However, following the conclusion of the first game, Tomlinson let the match official know that she was retiring the contest, due to an ongoing Achilles tendon issue, giving Gilis a 3-0 victory and a passage through to the last 16 in Cairo.

“I mean, this is not the way you want to win. I was expecting a big battle. I haven’t played Millie for a long time, I have never beaten her,” the Belgian No.2 explained.

“I train with her sometimes because we are both based in Nottingham. We both know each other and it is always so tough mentally playing her because her game doesn’t really suit me. I was ready for a big battle but I didn’t know she was injured. I wish her a speedy recovery and I hope she is okay.

“I just want to spend some more time on the glass court. I haven’t played on it for a while, so more time would be great!”

Result
[16] Tinne Gilis (BEL) bt Millie Tomlinson (ENG) 3-0: 11-5 rtd (7m)