Mischa Zverev finally the last one standing as he wins maiden ATP title

Mischa Zverev can finally call himself an ATP Tour singles title winner after lifting the Nature Valley International trophy.

The German won his maiden title at the age of 30 as he beat Lukas Lacko 6-4, 6-4 in one hour and 37 minutes in Eastbourne.

A break of serve in the opening game of the match and one in game five of the second set were enough to earn the world No 67 his first singles trophy.

“It feels amazing,” he said. “It was definitely one of the emotional moments in my life. Beating Andy Murray in Australia was special, but there you win a match, you’re still in it and the tournament’s not over. But here you’re the last one standing at the end of the week and you have the trophy, so it’s definitely a very unique feeling.

“I always wanted to win at least a title. For many years I didn’t believe in myself. I didn’t think I was going to do it, especially when I was ranked 1100. But thank God I have my family and my brother and the whole team, my wife who is always telling me, no, you can achieve things, you can do big things. Just believe in yourself, work hard, and it’s going to pay off one day.

“Luckily I have them and luckily I was able to listen to them, believe in myself, and just keep working and wait for it. Finally, I’m here. It’s incredible.”

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