Kyrgios wins Japan Open Crown

Australian tennis sensation Nick Kyrgios defeated Belgian David Goffin 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 to clinch his third ATP World Tour title, and his biggest one so far. The #NextGen star saved 11 of 12 break points and rallied from 4-5, 0-30 down in the third set, to turn the result in his favor in a two hour long match.

“It was tough, we had a lot of long rallies,” the 21 year old said. “I thought the way I returned today got me a lot of opportunities. It was a high-quality match, but I got lucky at times as well.”

Kyrgios produced a serving masterclass, firing 25 aces, and stepped up at decisive moments saving 11 of the 12 break points he faced. The win also means that Kyrgios has won a third title of a remarkable season that saw him reach a career high ranking of World No.15.

“It’s not easy to break him, because he was hitting 215 km/h serve on the line. I was trying to guess which way he was going, but he can still ace you. I tried my best, and it worked until 5-4 in the final set.”, said a dejected Goffin, who started the match splendidly, capturing the lone break in the first set, and continued dominating the third set.

“I enjoyed playing in front of the great crowd here. They’re very enthusiastic and very respectful. I have always loved playing in Japan.”, is what Kyrgios had to say for the crowd, which cheered with equal enthusiasm during each point.

While both the players were seeking their maiden ATP 500 titles, it was Kyrgios who came out on top, winning his biggest title till date. The win means Kyrgios takes home 500 ATP Rankings Points and $310,330 and will expect to see a rise in his rankings when they are released on 10 October. Goffin tanks 300 points and $145,750 for his performance.