Alfred Ludwig Reflects

Alfred Ludwig delighted to play in Muscat (Photo: Owen Hammond)

nnnnnnnnn

Ever present at the World Veteran Championships since the very first edition of the tournament was staged in 1982 in Gothenburg; in Muscat, the opening day of action, Monday 15th January, was one of the more testing for Germany’s Alfred Ludwig.

Alas, in men’s singles 80-84 years it was three matches played, three defeats.

He was beaten by Japan’s Motoharu Mizuuchi (12-10, 11-9, 11-8) and Iran’s Mohammad Al-Jafrari (11-6, 11-8, 11-8) prior to experiencing defeat when opposing Australia’s Harry Bligh (11-6, 11-7, 11-4).

Nevertheless, he was not downhearted; he was in a most positive mood when speaking to Claude Bergeret, President of the Swaythling Club International.

mmmmmmmmmm

Reflections

What are your best memories of the first WVC in 1982 in Gothenburg?

It was smaller, not many players, many European players; the level was not so high, but the ambience was very good.

Looking back at all the WVC tournaments, which stand out the most in your memory?

New Zealand (2014) and Brazil (2004). I liked the countries themselves, the environment and the sightseeing tours.

What do you consider to be your best ever result?

Rio de Janeiro in doubles with Grünewald. We lost in quarter final against a German pair.

What do enjoy the most about the WVC?

I enjoy the most the contacts, the communication, the exchanges with people from all around the world. And every time we could meet more or less the same “friends”. For example, during many years I had close contacts with an Australian guy.

Have you any recommendations for the WVC for the future?

No, nothing particular. Everything is fine. Every organiser does its utmost to deliver a smooth championship. Of course, the level of the opening ceremonies is quite different from a country to another, but this is understandable due to the cost of some shows. The opening ceremony in Mongolia was unbelievable and of course unforgettable but … this is China. They are the masters in this area!

n