Nicolas Mahut continued his love affair with the Ricoh Open Grass Court Championships as he successfully defended his 250 ranking points at the event here in the Netherlands on Monday. The Frenchman had also triumphed in 2013 besides winning the title last year.
The eighth-seeded Mahut had to overcome a lot more than just the on-court battle. First, he forgot to sign up for the tournament and consequently missed the cut-off date. Much to his delight, however, the organizers awarded him with a wildcard entry into the main draw of the tournament.
In addition, Mahut and his Luxembourgish opponent Gilles Muller had to overcome a day-long rain delay. The final which was scheduled to be held on Sunday, did start on the same day, but was forced to be postponed until the following day due to incessant rain and poor weather conditions.
Ultimately, it was Mahut who prevailed over numerous hindrances to pull off a 6-4 6-4 conquest of Muller. The Frenchman served 7 aces and converted all off the three break point opportunities on offer to clinch his fourth singles title on the ATP tour.
“Playing a final is always special, but this was different,” Mahut was quoted as saying by ATP World Tour. “Getting the trophy is the most important thing. I started the match really well and tried to relax. I know winning a title doesn’t happen every week.”
Meanwhile, the 34-year-old has a tight schedule ahead as he’s slated to board the earliest flight all the way to London to participate at the Aegon Championships, where he’s scheduled to lock horns with top-seeded Andy Murray in the first round on Tuesday.
