Cameron Norrie news: British No 1 claims first title of 2022

British number one Cameron Norrie secured his third ATP Tour title with victory over Reilly Opelka in the final of the Delray Beach Open.

Norrie edged a hard-fought contest 7-6 (1) 7-6 (4) against his big-serving American opponent, who sent down 25 aces but was unable to threaten Norrie’s serve.

The top seed failed to take any of the five break points he created against Opelka, who had needed three hours to win his third consecutive three-set match against John Millman in the semi-finals.

But Norrie raced through the first set tie-break and won the crucial points in the second set tie-break as well, most notably edging 5-4 ahead when Opelka’s forehand pass flew agonisingly long.

“I really enjoyed my time on court in Delray this week,” Norrie said after winning in one hour and 51 minutes. “Hopefully I can build on this now.”

Meanwhile, his beaten opponent suggested a big rankings breakthrough was imminent for Norrie as he stated: “You’re moving great. You’re playing great,” he said to world number 20 Opelka. “I’m sure you’re going to break into the top 10 real soon.”

Norrie has moved up to 12th place in the latest ATP rankings after his latest tournament win.