Delight for Kohlschreiber in Kitzb_hel
Originally published on 05/08/17 00:00
The 33-year-old is the champion of his hometown tournament for a second time as he defeated Joao Sousa 6-3 6-4 to win the Generali Open in Kitzbühel.
Kohlschreiber trailed his Portuguese opponent by a break in both sets however the wily German battled back and secured an 8th career triumph in style. It’s the first time the local-favourite has collected silverware since the Munich Open in 2016.
Sousa struck first in the opener and moved a break ahead as Kohlschreiber struggled to find his range. The German soon began to dictate proceedings with his potent forehand, though, and he reeled off four games in a row to establish control.
Sousa is a tenacious competitor and he came roaring back in the second set. He was more proactive and his change in approach paid dividends. The 28-year-old moved a break in front and he appeared to be in a strong position, however Kohlschreiber responded once again.
A delightful backhand return winner fired down the line enabled the German to break back and he continued to play with creativity and imagination. The Portuguese was under the cosh and he was unable to prevent his talented rival from winning a sixth clay-court title.
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