Auger-Aliassime crowned in Montpellier after a hard-fought final
Félix Auger-Aliassime won the 7th title of his career in Montpellier on Sunday, beating world No.102 Aleksandar Kovacevic in three sets (6-2, 6-7, 7-6) and 2h37 of play.
Dominant in the first set, the Canadian gave his opponent no chance, winning the first set after a double break and 33 minutes of play.
The second set, which was much tighter, featured a fine tie-break in which Kovacevic, who was on the verge of defeat, managed to save two match points, including one with a beautiful backhand passing shot.
The confident American then snatched the second set to prolong the suspense in this final.
At 5-5, Kovacevic had his only break point of the match, before a tie-break was again contested between the two men.
In the second tiebreak of the match, Auger-Aliassime quickly took the upper hand (7 points to 2) to finally win and claim his first title of the year.
The Canadian relied on his efficient serving during this final, with 19 aces and 74% first serves.
Thanks to his fine week in Montpellier, where he emerged from the qualifying rounds, Kovacevic will return to the Top 100 and climb to 72nd in the world rankings.
Montpellier 
