• ATP Tour

Del Potro beats Tipsarevic to win first title since 2009

ESPN staff
February 27, 2011
Juan Martin del Potro has won eight ATP titles © PA Photos
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Juan Martin del Potro capped his injury comeback by beating Janko Tipsarevic 6-4 6-4 in the final of the Delray Beach Open to claim his first title since lifting the US Open in 2009.

Del Potro, a former world No. 4, endured a lengthy spell on the sidelines last year because of a serious wrist injury and was only able to compete in three tournaments in 2010.

However, since returning to the court his results have gradually improved and two back-to-back semi-finals at San Jose and Memphis, followed by his triumph in Florida, have guaranteed him a place in the top 100 when the latest rankings are released on Monday.

The Argentine, playing in his first showpiece since the 2009 ATP World Tour Finals, saved five break points in the 10th game of the opening stanza before taking the set at the third time of asking.

Despite looking lethargic at times, Del Potro willed himself into action and he took command of the second set when he broke Tipsarevic to go 3-2 up. There were a few alarms in the next game, with the 22-year-old digging deep to fight off three break points, but he wasn't to be denied and eventually ground out the win in an hour and 54 minutes.

Afterwards, Del Potro, a wildcard at the tournament, said: "I feel completely tired but it's amazing for me, this comeback. I'm trying to improve my game day by day. Today Janko played better than me, I think, but I had a little luck in the important moments."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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