Brooksby wins his first ATP circuit title in Houston

Jenson Brooksby, ranked 507th in the world and coming from the qualifiers, won the ATP 250 in Houston this Sunday. In the final, the 24-year-old American defeated his compatriot Frances Tiafoe in two sets (6-3, 6-2).

Absent from the circuit for two years following a suspension for missing three anti-doping tests, Brooksby made his return to competition earlier this year at the Australian Open.

Without a ranking, he had to go through the Challenger stage with the help of wildcards, gradually regaining his form by reaching the third round at Indian Wells, where he was eventually defeated by the future winner Jack Draper.

In Houston, he initially had to go through the qualifications before embarking on a real battle in the main draw, saving three match points against Alejandro Tabilo in the second round and another in the semifinals yesterday against Tommy Paul.

In the final against Tiafoe, Brooksby completely dominated the match, showcasing his talent on the Texan clay court with a superb half-volley to conclude the first set and a beautiful backhand passing shot to break in the second set.

Untouchable, he thus claimed the first title of his career on the main circuit, after three failed attempts in Newport, Dallas, and Atlanta. He will jump 335 spots in the ATP ranking tomorrow, marking his return to the Top 200 at 172nd in the world.