CASABLANCA, April 12, 2015

Martin Klizan remains undefeated in a final on the ATP World Tour claiming his third career title at the Grand Prix Hassan II against Daniel Gimeno-Traver. The 25-year-old Slovakian had been successful in St. Petersburg in 2012 and in Munich 2014 before.

On Sunday in Casablanca, Klizan won 79% of his first service points and saved all of the seven break points he faced. The world number 41 defeated the Spaniard, who played his first ATP final, for the second time this year – after a three set victory in Quito in February – winning 6-2, 6-2 in 75 minutes.

“Today, was a difficult match for me. I played a long match yesterday and I didn’t feel very well today. Martin played a great match and deserved to win,“ said Gimeno-Traver, who made his third appearance in Casablanca having never previously won a main draw match. “I will always remember this week and I’m very happy that I reached my first final here.”

First time runner-up on the ATP World Tour: Daniel Gimeno-Traver (photo: GP Hassan II)

Through victories over Dustin Brown, Nicolas Almagro and Damir Dzumhur, Klizan earned € 80.000 in prize money and 250 ranking points but didn’t have to beat a seeded player en-route to claim the title.

“It’s an amazing feeling right now,” said a happy champion. “Every time I am in Morocco, I have played a lot on Centre Court and seen the list of all the names. I wished to be a champion and today I am. I am very proud and excited now. The crowd was unbelievable, they always support me.

“I would like to dedicate the trophy to my grandfather, who passed away last week, and also to those who died in an autobus crash in southern Morocco on Friday.”

Klizan dedicated the trophy to his grandfather (photo: GP Hassan II)

Martin Klizan gained his third ATP crown (photo: GP Hassan II)