Delray, Feb 24: Sebastian Korda captured the third ATP Tour title of his career, producing a composed performance to defeat fellow American Tommy Paul 6-4, 6-3 in the final of the Delray Beach Open.
Having fallen just short as runner-up at the same tournament in 2021, Korda returned to lift the trophy this time, becoming the ninth American man to triumph at the Florida event. The 25-year-old’s victory propels him to No. 40 in the ATP Live Rankings.
“(It means) a lot. I’ve been through some stuff the past couple of months, years. I’ve lost a lot of finals and now to get one here in Delray this is where I made my first ATP final so it’s like a full-circle day. I’m just happy,” Korda said.
Battling gusty afternoon winds, Korda played assertive tennis from the baseline, controlling rallies with clean, confident ball-striking. He seized the opening set with a timely break at 5-4 and was especially effective behind his first serve, claiming 83 per cent of those points, ATP reports.
The second set brought late drama. Serving for the championship, Korda fell behind 0/40 but refused to yield, saving four break points in the game before sealing the win after one hour and 22 minutes.
“It was tricky. We were both struggling out there, it was super windy. I was just trying to put the ball in the court. I was born and raised in Florida, so I’m used to the wind a little bit, but this was extreme for sure,” Korda said.