British number one Cameron Norrie beat top seed Carlos Alcaraz in an exciting Rio Open final 5-7, 6-4, 7-5 in a match lasting two hours and 42 minutes.
The win was Norrie’s fifth career title, his second on clay.
Just seven days earlier Norrie had lost in the final of the Argentina Open to the Spanish teenager, holder of the US Open title.
Alcaraz started the decisive third set with his thigh heavily strapped and broke Norrie to lead 2-0.
With the score at 4-4 and advantage point Alcaraz hit an underarm serve, hoping to catch Norrie off guard.
However, the Brit was ready and won the point, which could have proved costly for the 19-year-old but he eventually won the game to lead 5-4 in the third set..
Norrie then reeled off seven consecutive points to break back, and Alcaraz ripped his strapping off as if it was hindering his movement..
Norrie served for the match at 6-5 and held his nerve to take the title.
“It’s so special to win this one especially after losing a couple of finals already this year,” Norrie said after the match.
“I had to do it the tough way, I was a set and a break down and 0-30 on my serve.
“I managed to flick a switch and turn it around, so it was a good day.”
The win takes Norrie to number 12th in today’s ATP rankings.
Main photo:- Cameron Norrie celebrates Rio victory – by ATPTour.com
