Steve Johnson wins in Newport to break Ramkumar Ramanathan dream
Steve Johnson has beaten Ramkumar Ramanathan at Newport to claim his fourth career title.
The 28-year-old was dominant on his first serve throughout, eventually winning 7-5 3-6 6-2, although Indian star Ramanathan gave him his toughest test of the tournament.
In fact, Johnson came into the final without dropping more than three games in a single set, though he had to earn the trophy himself.
“I have been fortunate enough to win a couple of times,” he said.
“This is my first one as married man so now I can go home and share this with my wife.
Thank you @TennisHalloFame for an incredible week!! Excited to get another one in the states!! 🙌🙌 #weiss #wheelsup #vinome pic.twitter.com/hjN24I7BHX
— Steve Johnson (@SJohnson_89) July 22, 2018
“He came out and served great,” Johnson added of Ramanathan.
“He was phenomenal around the net and I was just happy to take care of my one chance in the first set and get a lead and buckle down in the third.”
Ramanathan, who is ranked 161st in the world, was hoping to become India’s first ATP Tour title winner for 20 years, but he has vowed to come again despite the defeat.
“I am going to keep going, giving my best, and next time I am going to win the title,” he said.
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