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Hewitt snaps losing streak for Halle title


 

Originally published on: 14/06/10 11:11

Lleyton Hewitt recovered from one set down to beat five-time champion Roger Federer for the Gerry Weber Open title in Halle.

The Australian won 3-6 7-6(4) 6-4 to triumph in his first final appearance of 2010, ending Federer’s 29-match winning streak at the tournament.

Federer started strongly and earned two breaks on Hewitt’s serve, winning the first set 6-3. But Hewitt hit back in the second, forcing a deciding set after converting his fourth set point in the tiebreaker. The Australian broke on Federer’s first service game of the third set, and held his nerve to snap a 15-match losing streak against the world No.2.

“Roger is a great player and a great champion and every time you step on court against him, you are the underdog on every surface,” Hewitt said. “(But) it doesn’t matter how big a favorite you are. He still only has two arms and two legs.”

Despite missing out on his sixth title in Halle, Federer remained confident of his chances of a Sampras-equaling seventh Wimbledon title.

“I was unfortunate not to come through today, but the loss here does not worry me in any way,” Federer said. “I thought it was a good tournament for me. I have got to ensure I draw the right conclusions for Wimbledon.”

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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.