ATP Kuala Lumpur – João Sousa claims first career title

João Sousa came back from set down to be the first Portuguese player ever to win an ATP title

Benneteau was the favorite for this match and started with confidence, his backhand and net game were making the difference. After 2 – 2 the French won 4 straight games to take a 1 – 0 lead.

Julien was not closer from his first career victory after 8 straight losses and the second serve was a battle of serves. At 5 – 4 huge opportunity for Benneteau, the French had match point on Sousa’s serve but the Portuguese saved it with an outstanding passing shot forehand down the line. Sousa came strong after that hold getting his first break and with a love hold of serve claimed the second set.

Benneteau seemed to be lost in the match and started the third set dropping his serve, the French wasn’t able to deal with Sousa’s consistency and aggressive game. Despite having 4 break point chances in the decisive set, Benneteau wasn’t able to confirm any of those. After 2 hours and 18 minutes Sousa claimed first career title with a backhand unforced error from Benneteau.