Sousa Gets Socked as American Wins ATP Auckland Final
American Jack Sock was made to work hard for his second career title on Saturday in Auckland, New Zealand, in the final defeating Joao Sousa of Portugal 6-3, 5-7, 6-3 for the ASB Classic championship.
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The 24-year-old Sock, the No. 4 seed, improved to 2-4 in career finals, adding to the Houston title from 2015.
The two traded breaks early in the third set before Sock ran with the lead to eventually clinch the decider 6-3.
“I’ve had chances,” Sock said of his six trips to ATP World Tour finals. “I’ve lost in a few finals. Winning the whole tournament is definitely a massive confidence booster.
“I was able to put in a lot of work in the off-season and I think it paid off. I was able to make lots of gains and lots of strides forward. I think it really showed this week.”
Twelve months ago Sock lost to Spaniard Roberto Bautusta Agut in the Auckland final.
En route to the final the unseeded Sousa toppled No. 5 seed Albert Ramos-Vinolas and No. 8 Marcos Baghdatis.
“I think I didn’t play a great match,” said Sousa. “He was very confident and he serves very well, and I think that was the key of the match.”
The 27-year-old Sousa fell to 2-6 in career finals, with his last title coming at 2015 Valencia.
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