Almagro completes Brazil treble
Spaniard digs deep to win Sao Paulo event
Last Updated: February 19, 2012 8:50pm
Nicolas Almagro: Won 11th ATP title in Brazil
Nicolas Almagro became the most successful player in the history of the Brazil Open after securing a third title with victory over Filippo Volandri on Sunday.
The defending champion surpassed Gustavo Kuerton's feat of two titles with a hard-fought 6-3 4-6 6-4 triumph over Italian Volandri in Sao Paulo.
World number 11 Almagro picked up his 11th career title - all of which have come on clay - after breaking Volandri late in the deciding set.
The Spaniard went to his chair and changed into a shirt with the words 'I love Brazil' written on it.
"It was incredible," Almagro said. "It was great to see the stadium packed. We always enjoy the atmosphere here, with the fans pushing us."
Volandri broke Almagro in the second game of the match, but the Spaniard came back with three breaks to take control, despite making only 55 per cent of his first serves.
The 26-year-old Almagro, a wildcard entrant at the event due to doubts over his participation, continued to play well in the second set but Volandri saved all five break opportunities he faced, then converted one of two chances to extend the match into a third set.
Almagro tightened up his serve in the decider, not offering up a single break point, before sealing victory on his second match point.
