Stepanek wins Washington title

Radek Stepanek upset Gael Monfils 6-4, 6-4 to win the ATP Washington Classic 2011 title.

Stepanek, who lost five of seven prior matches to Monfils, dominated the final without problems.

Stepanek broke Monfils in the third game of the match and led 3-2, 30-love when rain halted play. A break lasted three points, enough for Stepanek to hold to 4-2 before another downpour hit.

When play resumed, each man held twice, Stepanek taking the set on a service winner after 54 minutes.

Stepanek broke Monfils again to open the second set, the Frenchman racing down the Czech's forehand volley but netting a forehand.

Stepanek made the break stand, serving out to claim the victory after 93 minutes with a forehand volley winner as thunder rumbled in the distance.


Source AP