AIX EN PROVENCE, May 8, 2016

Thiago Monteiro claimed his first title on the ATP Challenger Tour, winning Sunday’s final of the €85,000 Open du Pays d’Aix Trophee Caisse d’Erpagne against Carlos Berlocq 4-6, 6-4, 6-1.

Thiago Monteiro (photo: Agence Icone)

The first meeting between the 21-year-old Brazilian youngster and the Argentine veteran took place in front of fully packed stands and in sunny conditions with Monteiro landing only 58% of his first services but winning 67% of those points.

The world number 189 from Rio de Janeiro, who lifted his last trophy at an ITF Future tournament in the Netherlands 2014, needed some time to find his rhythm but converted five of his 10 break point chances to seal victory in just under two hours of play.

Monteiro takes away €12,200 in prize money as well as 110 ATP ranking points.