Zizou Bergs has become the first Belgian man to capture a title on grass, defeating the sixth-seeded Ugo Humbert in the final of the Eastbourne Open. Despite dropping the opening set, the 48th-ranked player battled back to secure a 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 victory in challenging, windy weather.
The match was interrupted by rain on Saturday after only three games, forcing the players to return on Sunday to complete the contest. This win marks a significant milestone for Bergs, who had previously suffered losses in the finals at both Auckland and ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Following his victory, Bergs will face Humbert once more in the opening round of Wimbledon this Tuesday.
Humbert, the world number 30, appeared dominant in the initial set as he pursued his eighth professional title. However, Bergs responded with increased intensity in the second set, securing two breaks to force a decider. The match turned in the third set when Bergs broke Humbert’s serve following a critical forehand error from the Frenchman. Bergs held his composure in the final moments, celebrating with visible relief when Humbert hit the ball into the net on match point.
