KAARST, January 22, 2017

Elmar Ejupovic is the champion of the 13th Kirschbaum International powered by Energy Concepts. The German qualifier fought past fifth seed Oscar Otte in Sunday’s final at the Tespo Sportpark, winning 7-6, 6-7, 6-4.

The World No. 812 withstood 15 from Germany’s 2015 National Champion, hitting 11 of his own. Ejupovic converted two of his five break point chances and won seven points more than his opponent to celebrate his maiden title on the ITF Pro Circuit after two hours and 11 minutes.

“I am really exhausted right now,” Ejupovic told after winning six matches in a row. “If Oscar broke me at the beginning of the third set, I would not be possible for me to come back.”

Otte, who captured the doubles title on Saturday, had to admit the defeat. “I didn’t play my best. It was simply not enough to win.”

Germany’s three week ITF indoor swing will continue in Nussloch with the $15,000 MLP Cup next week.