Fabrice Santoro outshines Tim Henman to capture title – Statoil Masters Tennis 2012
Birthday boy, Fabrice Santoro, stunned the local star, Tim Henman, in straight sets at the Statoil Masters Tennis 2012 on Sunday. He notched up a 7-5, 6-3 victory against the former world number four to capture the title at this ATP Champions Tour event taking place in London, Great Britain.
The Little Magician, Santoro displayed superb skills and abilities to overpower Henman on his birthday. After dominating on these British courts, the French captured his second title at the ATP Champions Tour. Santoro conquered the Champions Brazil Trophy in May earlier this season to claim his first title.
Santoro stated in a press conference after capturing the title, "I am delighted just to play in this fantastic arena, so to win is unbelievable. It is my birthday today and I cannot think of a better way to celebrate, especially with having my family here watching me."
The French veteran made a convincing entry at the Royal Albert Hall. He smoothly held his serves to level the scores at 5-5. Santoro then got the breakthrough and eventually sealed the opener by winning seven games to five.
The former Top 20, Santoro maintain consistency in his game in the following set. He smoothly got the coveted break early in the set and took the initial lead. The French then held his composure and eventually clinched the set with a 6-3 score line.
Santoro made a strong start at this tournament. He tumbled Mark Philippoussis in straight sets in his opening round robin match. The French kept momentum rolling in his second round robin battle against the legendary Carlos Moya. He barely sweated and recorded a 6-2, 6-3 victory against the Spaniard with ease.
Henman on the other hand outclassed Thomas Enqvist in the Champions Tie Break in his opening match. The local legend clobbered a 6-7 (4), 6-3, 11-9 success against Enqvist in his opening round robin match. He then rallied past the former world number two Goran Ivanisevic with a 4-6, 6-2, 10-6 victory to secure a spot in the final showdown.
Santoro is looking forward to carry his rhythm at the Grand Champions Rio tournament taking place in Brazil on 17th December.
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