Battling Kyrgios claims first ATP 500 title with Tokyo triumph

Having ousted second seed Gael Monfils in the semi-finals, Nick Kyrgios wrapped up his third title of 2016 following victories in Atlanta and Marseille, triumphing 4-6 6-3 7-5 in Tokyo. 

Published : Oct 09, 2016 16:50 IST , London

Nick Kyrgios with the trophy.
Nick Kyrgios with the trophy.
lightbox-info

Nick Kyrgios with the trophy.

Nick Kyrgios showcased his battling qualities as he came from a set down to defeat David Goffin in the Japan Open final and claim a first ATP 500 title on Sunday. 

Having ousted second seed Gael Monfils in the semi-finals, Kyrgios wrapped up his third title of 2016 following victories in Atlanta and Marseille, triumphing 4-6 6-3 7-5 in Tokyo. 

It was a dramatic two-hour encounter as both players struggled to capitalise on break-point opportunities that came their way before the Australian forced the only break of the decider to move 6-5 ahead and successfully served out the match. 

The 21-year-old will hope the biggest title win of his enigmatic career to date is a sign of things to come and will be particularly pleased with the manner in which he kept fighting until the end. 

Goffin passed on three set points in the opener before finally edging ahead. However, the world number 14 was left to rue a missed opportunity in the third game of the second set when Kyrgios survived five break point chances. Kyrgios, who hammered down 25 aces, held firm and immediately broke the Belgian to pave the way for a decider that the prodigious young Australian edged.

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment