SZCZECIN, September 19, 2017
Richard Gasquet has celebrated a successful return to the ATP Challenger Tour, claiming his 10th career title at the €127,000 Szczecin Open on Sunday. The top seed from France beat the tournament’s number two Florian Mayer of Germany 7-6, 7-6.
In front of with 3,760 spectators packed Centre Court, Mayer had the better start and gained a break in the third game of the opening set. The 33-year-old German, however, couldn’t serve out the set in the 10th game and Gasquet took the tie-break 7-3.
The 31-year-old Frenchman was also the more solid player in the tie-break of the second set and evetually secured victory in one hour and 38 minutes.
Richard Gasquet
“It was a tough tournament as well as a tough match today,” Gasquet told aftewards. “I had to save match point in the quarterfinals but I fought a lot and I am happy with the way I finished the tournament. To come back with the title is a nice feeling.”
He takes away €18,290 in prize money as well as 125 ATP ranking points.
“After a difficult season for me, I was able to play a couple of matches and to gain some confidence. That was the reason why I came here. The tournament was very nice, well organized. Overall, a positive week for me.”
Next up for Gasquet will be the Moselle Open in Metz. “I feel physically good now and I am trying to achieve some more good results at the rest of the season but the main goal for me is to stay healthy.”
Mayer could also take some positives from the week.
“I had my chances in the first set, so I am a bit disappointed,” Mayer commented about the final. “Nonetheless, it was a good week for me here.” The German veteran is also scheduled to play in Metz next week.
