De Minaur wins Washington final after comeback

Washington

Alex de Minaur made a stunning comeback to win the Washington Open title by beating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 5-7, 6-1, 7-6(3). He saved three championship points during the match and earned his 10th ATP title in dramatic fashion.

The Australian was on the edge of defeat in the final set. Fokina was serving for the title at 5-4, 30/0. But De Minaur broke back and later saved three match points while serving. One of those points turned around after his desperate lob landed just inside the sideline, changing the momentum.

De Minaur moved up five spots in the ATP Live Rankings to No. 8. He is now also eighth in the Race to Turin. Fokina rose seven spots to No. 19 in the rankings and is now 11th in the Turin race.

De Minaur recalled a similar comeback at the same event in 2018. “I knew I could do it,” he said. “I told myself to commit fully. If I was going to lose, it would be on my terms.”

He also praised his mindset. “I’m proud of how I handled things this week. Even if I had lost, it was a good week overall. But it feels amazing to lift my 10th trophy.”

For Fokina, it was another missed chance. He also lost two championship points earlier this year in Delray Beach and was a runner-up in Acapulco.

The match was a thrilling reminder of tennis’ unpredictability and mental strength.