Sousa crowned Tata Open champion with tough win over Ruusuvuori
Joao Sousa prevailed in a fire-fight with immensely-talented Emil Ruusuvuori in the summit clash of the Tata Open Maharashtra to clinch his first ATP singles title since May 2018 and fourth overall on Sunday. Ranked 137, the 32-year-old Sousa countered the intensity of his 22-year-old sixth seed rival from Finland with his experience to emerge a 7-6 (9), 4-6, 6-1 winner in the final that lasted two hours and 43 minutes at the Balewadi Sports Complex. While the two players put on display enthralling tennis, Sousa's perseverance was key in countering the intense hitting and fighting spirit of the Finland player, who was eyeing his maiden title.
