Sebastian Baez wins his biggest Rio title yet!

© AFP

Guillaume Nonque

le 26/02/2024 à 09h58

1 min to read

Baez Kuerten Navone Rio de Janeiro Roland Garros

Sebastian Baez defeated his Argentine compatriot Mariano Navone in two sets to win the ATP 500 clay-court tournament in Rio on Sunday, claiming his fifth title and the biggest of his career.

Baez, 23, defeated Navone, ranked 113th in the world and a qualifier, 6-2, 6-1, to climb to a career-high ranking of 21st on Monday.

"Throughout the week, I've felt really good here. I've said it before, I compare this tournament to my home because of the crowd, the people, everything," said Baez.

"During pre-season, I spent a week here, so I know this place, I know the people and I enjoyed my time on and off the court.

Navone hadn't won a match on the main tour prior to the Rio tournament, but he reached the final in style, beating defending champion Cameron Norrie in the semis.

However, he was never able to settle into Sunday's match, quickly conceding a double break to fall behind 4-0 and ultimately lose in 83 minutes.

Baez converted 6 of his 14 break points.

"I think it's very important because for a first final, you're more nervous," added Baez.

"I think I started both sets well, that was the key."

Despite his defeat, Navone will be able to console himself by entering the top 100 for the first time, as he is now ranked 60th in the world (up 53 places).

Finally, Baez was congratulated on his trophy by clay-court legend Gustavo Kuerten, three-time French Open winner (1997, 2000, 2001) and former world No.1.