Allam British Open – Hull

Laura Massaro Claims 2017 Allam British Open Title
 
England’s World No.5 Laura Massaro triumphed on finals day at the 2017 Allam British Open, claiming victory over compatriot Sarah-Jane Perry at the World Series tournament held in Hull’s Airco Arena.

Massaro became the first Englishwoman since Janet Morgan in 1951 to lift the prestigious Allam British Open title on two occasions after she saw off Perry in four games.

Massaro, the 2013 champion, and Perry were contesting the first female all-English British Open final since Lisa Opie and Sue Wright in 1991 after they achieved respective semi-final wins over defending champion Nour El Sherbini and five-time winner Nicol David.

And it was 33-year-old Massaro who imposed her game plan on the encounter to seal the win by an 11-8, 11-8, 6-11, 11-6 scoreline.

“It’s just unbelievable,” said Massaro, who will move up to World No.2 in next month’s rankings.

“When I won the British Open for the first time I was so happy. There was a little bit more pressure coming into today as I beat Nicol, who was World No.1, for my first title and at the time there was absolutely no pressure on me.

“I’m proud of myself for the week and for bouncing back because this has probably not been my best season. I’m just happy I managed to tough it out in the end and keep getting balls back and it paid off. It’s a little bit different because the first one was so special.”

Result – Final: 2017 Allam British Open
[5] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt [7] Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG) 3-1: 11-8, 11-8, 6-11, 11-6 (55m)