In the Japan Open final on Tuesday, Arthur Fils overcame fellow Frenchman Ugo Humbert 5-7, 7-6 (6), 6-3, fighting valiantly despite a left ankle injury to win the third ATP title of his career.
After dropping the opening set, the 20-year-old gained confidence throughout the three-hour match and converted a match point before winning his maiden match against Humbert. The two had lost their previous four matches, including this year.
“I thought I was going to die on the court after the first set ended with a 5-5 score. He was making incredible shots. In his post-match interview, Fils stated, “I could have lost today. Also read: Davis Cup Final: Italy to face Argentina
Fils broke early in the first set to lead 3-2, but he had trouble serving and gave Humbert a break in the following game with consecutive double faults.
But Fils then put pressure on world No. 19 Humbert, who had to save four break points to hold twice. With Fils having trouble because of his injuries, Humbert emerged victorious in the opening set.
In the second set, Humbert gave the world No. 24 a rough time as he attempted to break and grab a 5-4 lead, leading 40-0. As the set headed to a tiebreak, Fils, however, pushed deep to save all three break opportunities by placing calculated strokes close to the lines.
In the breaker, Humbert led 6–5 and appeared to be serving for the win. However, Fils, who was now playing with greater ease, saved a match point with an incredible backhand passing stroke and won the following two points to win the set. Also read: Billie Jean King: first female athlete to be awarded Congressional Gold Medal
In the third set, Fils put up a strong fight, and Humbert turned away two break points before his compatriot eventually won, leading 5-3 and clinching the title with an ace. “You have my undying gratitude and admiration,” Humbert said to Fils.