Zizou Bergs toppled Frenchman Ugo Humbert in the Lexus Eastbourne Open final to become the first Belgian men's champion on grass on Tour in the Open Era.
World No. 48 Zizou Bergs claimed his maiden title at tour level on Sunday by prevailing over sixth seed Ugo Humbert, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4, in a thrilling two-hour, 4-minute contest.
“It’s great to have this tournament right before Wimbledon,” Bergs said in the trophy presentation. “It’s great conditions, great hospitality, so a big thank you for the organisation here."
“My team, I have worked with you for a number of years now. We make a great team. If the results aren’t there, we’re always working together on how to improve, and that’s why we’re here today standing with the trophy,” he added.
The Lexus Eastbourne Open men's championship match was postponed in the first set on Saturday due to the rain.
Play resumed on Sunday at Devonshire Park with Bergs on serve.
However, it was Humbert who quickly found his groove, playing with aggression to take control of the set from the early stages.
As they rallied, the French player moved forward, taking the better of his opponent, converting a double break before closing out 6-3, hitting eight winners in the process.
On his way to the final, the 28-year-old produced rock-solid showings, conceding just one break in his 47 service games at the ATP 250 tournament.
Trailing by one set, Bergs bounced back, adjusting his game, and despite facing break points on his serve, he made the most of his chances, racing to even the title match at one set apiece.
In the decider, the world No. 30 kicked up a level with small margins separating the players throughout a tight battle for the crown.
But following a challenging start to the final set, the unseeded player found an extra gear on the return, neutralizing his adversary while charging at the net with accuracy.
Then, the Belgian player drew level at 3-3, and from there, he never looked back, sealing the set 6-4 and the overall triumph.
He fired 21 winners against 28 unforced errors, converting four of 10 break point opportunities, and won 65 percent of the points on his first serve and 67 percent on his second delivery.
Humbert, who took down former world No. 4 Jack Draper en route to the final, addressed the new champion during the trophy ceremony.
“I want to congratulate Zizou on your first title. You played really well today,” he shared. “I will see you in a few days for the rematch at Wimbledon."
Bergs and the Metz-born will meet next Tuesday in the first round at Wimbledon.
“This tournament is really great. It’s a nice place, and to prepare for Wimbledon, it’s a great week for me,” Humbert added.
With little time to rest, the Cathedral of tennis awaits them for a much-anticipated rematch.
Onwards!