Veteran Tommy Haas, who needed a wildcard to get into the Halle field, on Sunday won his first career grasscourt title with a 6-3, 6-7(4), 6-1 win over world No. 4 Novak Djokovic to capture the Gerry Weber Open title.
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It was the extension of a recent hot streak for the former world No. 2 Haas, who at the French Open lost in five sets to eventual champion Roger Federer.
“It’s such an incredibly nice feeling to hold up the trophy again and to be in Germany as well, in front of German fans is even more special,” Haas said. “After a few setbacks here and there, struggling a little bit, having ups and downs throughout this year even it makes everything go away in some ways when you have these kind of moments. This is what you play for.”
The 31-year-old Haas won his 12th career title in 21 finals, with a streak of seven straight final victories.
“It was all about just focusing on the match and trying to beat a terrific player, to beat Novak which never happened before for me,” Haas said. “I respect his game a lot and I respect him as a person. So to beat him in the final is even more special, especially with what he’s accomplished in such young years it’s great. So, it’s perfect.”
Djokovic was left searching for a career-first grasscourt title.
“The week was great. I think I had enough matches prior to Wimbledon which is a positive thing I’m taking out of this tournament,” said Djokovic. “I didn’t play on the level I played these days at all today. I think I served really bad with a low percentage, gave him a lot of opportunities to get into the rally, was quite defensive. Most importantly, I think I didn’t return well and that was the key.”
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