Share

Maiden win for Bautista Agut

's-Hertogenbosch - Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut claimed the first title of his career at the ATP/WTA 's-Hertogenbosch Open on Saturday.

Bautista Agut, the world No 28, came from a set down to beat 2009 champion Benjamin Becker of Germany 2-6, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4 in just under two hours as he continued his breakout season.

The Spaniard, who entered the world's top 30 for the first time last month, was forced to do things the hard way, though, as Becker raced through the opening set courtesy of two service breaks with Bautista Agut's second serve coming in for heavy punishment.

The second set was much tighter, with a tie-break required to separate the players and it was Bautista Agut who held his nerve as Becker faltered, forcing a decider.

Becker hammered an ace to save break point in the opening game of the final set but Bautista Agut made the crucial breakthrough two games later before shutting the door on his rival to earn his first ATP title, going a step further than he did a year ago in Chennai.

"It took me a while to recover from a very long match yesterday and I was getting better and better after the first set," said Bautista.

"I was more focused and started to feel better physically. I was trying not to think too much and play my game point by point.

"It was the same nervousness as every match. I played calm and agressive in the last game. I had to celebrate hard (after match point) and enjoy the moment."


We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
How much would you be prepared to pay for a ticket to watch the Springboks play against the All Blacks at Ellis Park or Cape Town Stadium this year?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
R0 - R200
33% - 1818 votes
R200 - R500
32% - 1778 votes
R500 - R800
19% - 1084 votes
R800 - R1500
8% - 461 votes
R1500 - R2500
3% - 187 votes
I'd pay anything! It's the Boks v All Blacks!
5% - 254 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE