Unseeded Llodra Surprises with ATP Adelaide Title

Unseeded Frenchman Michael Llodra won his second career ATP singles title on Sunday with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over No. 3 seed Jarkko Nieminen for the Next Generation Adelaide International title.

Llodra broke early in each set, and the 27-year-old celebrated his victory by jumping into the River Torrens in Adelaide.

It was the first hardcourt title for Llodra, who won his lone previous title on grass in 2004. Barely ranked in the Top 100, Llodra was the last direct acceptance into the main draw.

"I knew before the match he's going to be tough because he's a good returner but I know also when I serve good its tough for the guy to return," said the doubles specialist. "This win will give me a lot of confidence for sure. When I came here I was the last one into the tournament but I made good preparation in December and I knew I could play good. I played in my first ATP final at this tournament and now I win the last tournament in Adelaide so it is good history for me."

In the doubles final the No. 4-seeded team of Garcia/Melo beat Aussie wildcards Guccione/Smeets 10-7 in a third-set tiebreak.