Heather Watson’s win in the first round of the French Open, the first by a British player for 17 years, brought huge national newspaper coverage.

TENNIS star Heather Watson received messages of congratulations and support from leading islanders yesterday after she sensationally made history at the French Open.

The 19-year-old became the first British female to reach the second round of the tournament in 17 years, after beating the much more experienced Stephanie Foretz Gacon in straight sets at Roland Garros.

National newspapers were full of coverage of the Guernsey star yesterday, with the Daily Mail splashing her over its back page proclaiming the win had shown a glimpse of the youngster’s immense potential.

‘It’s fantastic,’ Culture and Leisure minister Mike O’Hara said. ‘My heart was in my mouth watching it. She has done such a lot and she has done a wonderful job for Guernsey.’

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