Jack Sock has ended America’s seven-year wait for a Masters 1000 champion after fighting his way past qualifier Filip Krajinović 5-7, 6-4, 6-1, in the final of the Rolex Paris Masters.
The showdown at the AccorHotels Arena was a milestone occasion for both men. At stake for 25-year-old Sock was the chance to win his first Masters 1000 title and end the season as the highest ranked American player for the first time in his career. Meanwhile, Krajinović was hoping to become the first qualifier to win the Paris title and the second Serbian to win a Masters trophy after Novak Djokovic.
On paper, Sock was the clear favourite, but it was the Serbian underdog that prevailed early on. Prior to Paris, Krajinović had only ever won one main draw match in a Masters event. His surge follows what has been a successful year on the Challenger tour, where he clinched five titles. During three of those tournaments he didn’t drop a single set. It was a clash of fine margins during the opening set with both players trading breaks. At the pressure moment Sock buckled, hitting a double fault on set point to reward the 7-5 lead to the world No.77.
“I just talked to myself a little bit and just said ‘keep hanging in there like you have done all week.’” Sock told Sky Sports about losing the first set. “ I have been down 5-1 in my first match in the third set and I came back from that. So, this was miniscule compared to that.”
Battling from behind, the American refused to give up hope of winning the title and qualifying for the season-ending Nitto ATP Finals. A double break during the early stage of the second start triggered the start of his comeback. The shots his opponent was making early in the match was no longer landing in. Enabling Sock to level the clash at a set apiece.
Continuing to turn the match around, the world No.22 moved into the lead during the early stages of the decider. Back-to-back winning passing shots secured the crucial break as he moved to a 2-1 lead. Prompting a huge roar and fist clench from him. From then on, it was a one-way show for Sock, who clinched the biggest title of his career after a Krajinović backhand landed out.
“This week is an incredible moment for me, especially the way it started. Being down in my first match and being able to battle through that one.“ He said during the trophy ceremony.
Sock’s triumph in Paris has ended a run of 69 consecutive Masters trophies being won by a European player. He is the first American to win a title in the category since Andy Roddick in 2010 (Miami) and the first in Paris since Andre Agassi back in 1999.
There is also reason for celebration for runner-up Krajinović. The Serbian will now rise to a ranking high of 33 following his breakthrough week in Paris. Moving him closer to being seeded in a grand slam tournament for the first time in his career next year.
“This is the best week of my life. I will never forget this moment in my life. Coming from the qualies to the final is a dream come true for me.” Said the 25-year-old Serbian.
London’s calling
For the seventh consecutive year Sock has improved his year-end ranking to 9th. Placing him inside the top-10 for the first time. His reward is the final spot in the ATP Finals in London, overtaking Pablo Carreno Busta. It seemed only suitable that the milestone should have happened in Paris. A city where he has achieved some of the biggest results in his career.
“I love Paris.I have had amazing moments at the French Open. A lot of firsts here in Paris.” Stated Sock.
“There has been a lot of firsts. The French Open was my first, fourth round of a slam. Now my first Masters series (title) in Paris. This will now be my first time in the top-10 and now my first time in making London at the year-end finals.’
“So, there is a lot going on right now emotionally. I just can’t wait to enjoy it with my team.” He added.
After exceeding expectations in Paris, Sock now has his eyes on creating a shock at the O2 Arena. He will be the first player from his country to play in the event since Mardy Fish in 2011.
“If I keep playing good tennis, anything can happen. I feel comfortable, very comfortable on the court. I feel very confident in my game.” He explained about his London chances.
“I snuck into the last spot and I got nothing to lose. So I’m going to go out there and swing big and play my tennis.”
Sock exits Paris with €853,430 in prize money and 1000 ranking points.
