HALLE/STARNBERG, June 20, 2021

Ugo Humbert earned the biggest title of his career on Sunday when he defeated fourth seed Andrey Rublev of Russia 6-3, 7-6(4) to triumph at the NOVENTI OPEN in Halle, Westphalia, Germany.

This is the 22-year-old Frenchman’s third ATP Tour title and his first at an ATP 500 event. The lefty won four three-setters – including a second-round victory against third seed and home favourite Alexander Zverev – to reach the championship match.

Humbert had lost his only previous meeting against Rublev, but he found his best tennis to defeat the big-hitting Russian after one hour and 24 minutes.

Huge from Ugo 🙌

The moment @HumbertUgo claimed his first 500 title, 6-3 7-6 over Andrey Rublev at Halle. #NoventiOpen pic.twitter.com/igmT35SEG0

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) June 20, 2021

“It is incredible. It is the best victory of my career,” Humbert said. “I am very proud because it wasn’t easy. I was a little bit tired, but I tried to stay focused on each point and did what I could, so it is very nice.

“I tried to stay aggressive and take the ball early because in the baseline rallies it was tough, because Andrey was hitting the ball very hard. Physically, it was tough, and I tried to take my chances when I could, and I won.”

By lifting his third ATP Tour trophy after Auckland in New Zealand and Antwerp in Belgium last year, Humbert earned €113,785 in prize money as well as 500 ATP Ranking points.

Krawietz/Tecau claim first team title

In other action, third seeds Kevin Krawietz of Germany and Romanian Horia Tecau overcame Felix Auger-Aliassime from Canada and Hubert Hurkacz of Poland  7-6(4), 6-4 to claim the doubles title.

“I love coming here, it is a relaxing week,” Tecau said. “They are very good quality grass courts, everything feels good and friendly for the players. I also played some good tennis here, and after winning the title with Kevin, I like it even more. It is great to get a title at one of your favourite tournaments.”

Perfect Match, Kevin & Horia 🥳🤗💪🏻 #NOVENTIOPEN2021 pic.twitter.com/fDpzhEBi7d

— NOVENTI OPEN (@ATPHalle) June 20, 2021