Grigor Dimitrov Overcomes Holger Rune To End Title Drought At The Brisbane International

Grigor Dimitrov outplays world no. 8 Holger Rune to claim his ninth ATP singles title at the Brisbane International in Australia after a 6-year drought since winning the Nitto ATP Finals in November of 2017. He saw off the Dane after 2 tight sets 7-6(5), 6-4 in 2 hours and 16 minutes at the Pat Rafter Arena. 

The first set was incredibly close and both players held their serves well and played great points and rallies. However, the second seed Dimitrov was able to close out the tie-break in the first as Rune was unable to hold his serve in the first few games of the breaker. 

The start of the second set was similar to the first until the Bulgarian managed to obtain a crucial break from Rune as he was serving at 3-3. Rune hit his forehand out on breakpoint which let Dimitrov serve while leading 4-3. Dimitrov had chances to close the game with Rune serving at 3-5 but he was unable to capitalise. However, Dimitrov kept his cool and served out the game to love for the title, winning 6-4 in the second set.

Grigor Dimitrov continues his fantastic form from the end of last season and starts this season with a bang. He has been working his way back to the top of the game and the years of hard work finally paid off in this tournament. Despite struggling with injuries and inconsistent performances, Dimitrov has always shown glimpses of his talent and potential. He has now proven that he is a force to be reckoned with on the ATP tour once again. Look out for him at the Australian Open!