Stefanos Tsitsipas was in tears after he defeated Casper Rudd, 6-1, 6-4, in the final to claim the Monte Carlo Masters title on Sunday.
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TSITSIPAS IN TEARS AFTER WINNING FIRST TITLE IN 2024
Tsitsipas wept in his chair as he won his first title this year and his biggest tournament title in two years.
The world No.7 collected his third Monte Carlo title and 11th overall after winning in 2021 and 2022.
“I’m very proud of myself today. I had been waiting for a moment like this for a long time,” Tsitsipas said.
“It has been very difficult, so to be back on the podium, winning tournaments, just feels amazing,” he added.
TSITSIPAS TOPPLES SINNER IN SEMIS BEFORE CLAIMING TITLE
It was a special moment for the Greek player, who defeated world No.2 Jannik Sinner, 6-4, 3-6, 6-4, in the semifinals.
Tsitsipas, who was seeded No.12 in the tournament, handed reigning Australian Open champion Sinner his second loss this year.
Rudd was also an unexpected finalist after he toppled world No.1 Novak Djokovic, 6-4, 1-6, 6-4, in the last four.
“Capturing that win today (Sunday) was nerve-wracking. I really wanted this trinity,” Tsitsipas said.
RUUD CHALLENGE NOT ENOUGH TO DENY TSITSIPAS OF TITLE
Ruud was outplayed in the first set but showed life when he pressured Tsitsipas in the hopes of forcing a decider.
Tsitsipas needed to save three break points and needed 13 minutes to hold serve in a close seventh game.
The Greek superstar used a forehand winner and then slid on his back arms to clinch the victory.
“I managed the point relatively well and finished it with the winner. I showed some ruthless tennis,” Tsitsipas said.
