Tsitsipas snaps title drought with Dubai defeat of FAA

Stefanos Tsitsipas claimed his first ATP title in nearly a year on Saturday as he took control of his Dubai final, defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 6-3.

It was third time lucky in a final at the Aviation Club for the fourth seed, who finished runner-up here in 2019 against Roger Federer and was unable to get past Novak Djokovic in the final a year later at his last appearance here.

The Greek who will return to the ranking top 10 as a result of his success in the emirate, last lifted a trophy in April when he won his third at the Monte Carlo Masters.

The victory in 88 minutes was the 13th of his career and his first at the 500 level on the Tour. he delivered an ace down the middle on the first of three match point

“This was pure fighting and me trying my best to avoid losing a third final here,” the winner said. “It was nerve-wracking against a difficult opponent.

“I’m proud how I handled the pressure and performed in the crucial moment. I’ve been working hard for a long time (on my game).

“I’m glad (the win) happened here in Dubai; my game clicked and things worked well from the beginning.”

Tsitsipas saved four break points and caught his opponent’s serve twice as he won the opening set against the Canadian who already owns two titles this season at Adelaide and Montpellier.

The Greek continued his winning momentum in the second, adding another break of serve as he finished on his first of three match points.

Tsitsipas ended with 16 winners while saving all seven break points he faced with first serves.

“It’s a big relief to hold this trophy for the third time,” Tsitsipas said. “It was in the back of my mind not to lose again.

“I’m back in the top 10 – that’s what we players fight for. It’s definitely one of the greatest feelings. I’m very happy to be in a winning position, I’m ready to celebrate.”

Tsitsipas beat FAA for the seventh time in 10 matches as the pair head to next week’s start halfway around the world at the Indian Wells Masters in California.

Main photo:- Stefanos Tsitsipas with Dubai winners trophy – by ATPTour.com