JUNIOR tennis ace Natalie Beazant is aiming to be a Wimbledon star of the future.

The 17-years-old Leigh-born player graced the grass courts for the first time on Monday and was thrilled by her experience of the world’s greatest tournament.

Unfortunately Natalie, who started playing at the age of three, was defeated in the junior singles by Polina Pekhova (BLR) 6-3, 6-1.

Ranked UK no 5 and with an ITF world ranking of 129 she said: “It was a great experience, there's nothing like playing at Wimbledon. It's definitely different than all the other matches I've played before.

“I was more excited than nervous. It's a bit disappointing, but if I do get the chance to come back here next year I'll know what it's like, it won't be such a new experience.

“When we were walking to our court we walked past Henin and Clijsters, so it's cool. I'm playing mainly ITFs, to get my ranking up so I can play all the junior slams, and then who knows from there."

Natalie, who shares her homes between Leigh and Bradenton Florida, is studying at a tennis academy in the sunshine state and sees the world playing tournaments.

This year she has played in France, Uruguay and Costa Rica and last year in Portugal and Egypt.

Coached by Tiffany Dabek she plays right handed with a two handed backhand and favours a clay surface.