World number 5, Stefanos Tsitsipas needed just two sets to claim his first Masters 1000 title after he defeated Andrey Rublev 6-3 6-3 in the final game of the Monte Carlo Masters. Both players have enjoyed a very wonderful time in the tournament, defeating some of the best players in the world. Tsitsipas defeated Dan Evans in the semi-finals 6-2 6-1 while Rublev overcame Casper Ruud 6-3 7-5 to qualify for a spot at the finals. Before that Rublev stunned Spanish legend, Rafael Nadal, breaking him seven times in the game of three. But unfortunately, he was no match for the Greek who denied him the chance of getting his first Masters 1000 title.
Both players started the Sunday very optimistic but we were quick soon to see that Tsitsipas was in control as he did not drop a single set throughout the final round, which lasted 1hr 11mins. Speaking after the match, Tsitsipas said, “I had an unbelievable week,” said the 22-year-old. “I am overwhelmed by so many different emotions and nostalgia. I would consider it as the [best] week of my life so far. The clay-court season couldn’t have started better. It is the best thing winning my first Masters 1000 and it is even more special doing it here on home soil in Monte Carlo [where he lives] and doing it on clay, which is my favourite surface.”
Last month, Tsitispas lost to Rublev at the semifinals in Rotterdam. He also got to the semi-final stage in Melbourne back in February. Although Rublev lost, he has been moved up to the 7th position on the ATP rankings. In the doubles category, Croatians Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic defeated Dan Evans who teamed up with fellow Englishman Neal Skupski in a game of three sets (6-3 4-6 10-7).
Written by: Leon Osamor
