Sebastian Baez of Argentina won his first ATP 500 title after beating compatriot Mariano Navone in the Rio Open final.
RIO DE JANEIRO, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- Argentine Sebastian Baez clinched his fifth career title on Sunday with a 6-2, 6-1 victory over compatriot Mariano Navone in the Rio Open final.
Baez maintained a first serve percentage of 79% and converted six of 14 break points to take the match in one hour and 22 minutes on the outdoor clay of the Jockey Club Brasileiro.
It was his first victory in the ATP 500 category and is set to lift him nine places to No. 21 in the world rankings.
"This is incredible. I felt comfortable all week as if I were playing at home," the 23-year-old said afterward.
"I spent a week working on my game here in Brazil in the pre-season and it paid off. It's special to win this final," he added.
For his part, Navone is set to climb 53 places in the rankings to No. 60 after reaching his first ATP final.
The 10th edition of the event, which is South America's biggest men's tennis tournament, was hailed as a success by three-time grand slam winner Andy Murray.
"Unpopular opinion. South America should have its own dedicated swing on the tennis tour with its own Masters series," Murray said in a social media post. "The way the fans support the tournaments there is incredible."■
