Johannesburg – South African Raven Klaasen and American Eric Butorac claimed their first ATP World Tour title as a team, defeating Pablo Cuevas and Horacio Zeballos 6-2, 6-4 in 56 minutes to win the ATP Malaysian Open, in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.
The duo won 81 percent of first serve points and converted four of seven break points to seal victory in their first tournament as a team.
“It was a great match for us today and awesome week in general,” Klaasen said after the match.
“I felt comfortable out there today and mainly due to the good start we had.”
Butorac said he combined really well with Klaasen throughout the tournament.
Klaasen said the pair kept improving as they moved through the draw.
“I felt like we got stronger every match, so we really enjoyed it out there, and the crowd today really showed up and made it fun out there.”
The 30-year-old Klaasen improved his win-loss record in finals to 3-1, and consolidated a successful fortnight. Last week, he captured his second title of the season in Metz.
Klaasen said the win confirmed his good form of late.
“It was good to capitalise on back-to-back ATP World Tour 250 wins. It gives me lots of confidence for next season,” said Klaasen.
It was the third win of the season for Klaasen.
Klaasen should be in the world's top 45 as of Monday.
“There is no better feeling than watching your ranking move in the right direction.
I'm looking forward to Monday and seeing some progress on my ranking. It will definitely help me in getting closer to playing in some big events,” said Klaasen. – Sapa