Nick Kyrgios survived a two-hour marathon to defeat David Goffin 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, in the final of the Japan Open and claim his first ATP 500 title.
The Australian sixth seed has been in impressive form throughout the tournament as he strolled to the final without dropping a set, defeating Gael Monfils in the semifinals. Facing world No.14 Goffin, Kyrgios fired 25 aces on route to the victory. The triumph was far from plain sailing for the 21-year-old, who successfully fended off 11/12 break points. The only point he failed to defend ultimately cost him the opening set. Nevertheless, Kyrgios regained his composure to edge the Belgian out over three close sets to guide himself to the biggest title of his blossoming career.
“It was a great week and I’ll be here again,” 21-year-old Kyrgios said.
“I’m going to come here, for sure, for my whole career.”
The title is Kyrgios’ third of the season after winning a duo of ATP 250 trophies in Marseille and Atlanta. He is the fifth player this year to win three or more titles on the tour after Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Dominic Thiem and Stan Wawrinka.
Kyrgios’ triumph comes a month after he was forced to retire from the US Open. The controversy-stricken Australian once again came under criticism in New York, most notably from John McEnroe. Despite the criticisms, earlier this week the world No.15 said that he is maturing on the tour.
“I’ve just matured,” said Kyrgios following his semifinal win. “I’m trying to bring my game consistently rather than just playing Grand Slams and Masters events. I’m trying to bring it every week, no matter where I’m playing.
“I’m getting older so I’m assuming I’m going to get better. It’s good to see that I’m having some decent results now and again.”
Closing in on the top 10, Kyrgios is projected to rise to a new career high of 14 when Monday’s rankings are published.
Thank you to everyone that made this week possible. Genuinely very humbled right now. @rakutenopen & fans, thank you. 🙏🏽🏆 #SeeYouNextYear
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) 9 October 2016
Match highlights
