Fish Survives on Land for Houston Title

Andy Roddick failed to reach a sixth consecutive Houston title, but Mardy Fish continued the American success at the U.S. Claycourt Championships Sunday with a 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 win over Jurgen Melzer for his first title of the year.

It was the second career title for Fish, and a landmark result after returning from two successive wrist surgeries.

"I definitely didn't expect to win the tournament this week, and I have always wanted to come to this tournament and play well. I love this tournament," Fish told reporters. "I feel like I am playing good tennis, and I definitely don't feel like the comeback is complete. I've still a long ways to go. I'm still outside the Top 100, so I need to keep going, and keep motivated and positive."

Fish improved to 2-6 career in finals, winning his first event at Stockholm in 2003.

Melzer dropped to 0-3 in career finals, and entered Houston with a 1-8 win-loss record in 2006.

In the doubles final, Germans Michael Kohlmann/Alexander Waske upset No. 3 seeds Julian Knowle/Jurgen Melzer of Austria 5-7, 6-4, 10-5 for their first title of the year as a team.