The South African served through the valiant efforts of Jenson Brooksby.
One couldn’t help but be happy for Kevin Anderson. After an injury-plagued 2019 and 2020, the 35-year-old tennis player overcame Jenson Brooksby to win his seventh career ATP title and first since 2019.
Anderson saved two set points in the first set and eventually won 7-6 (8), 6-4, making 16 aces in the process.
“I think I’m close to the end, but this tournament gave me the motivation to keep going,” Anderson said. “I’ve played a lot of tournaments in my career, and this one is the best.”
“This couldn’t be a better week for me to start my comeback. I need a few days off, but I’d like to thank everyone for supporting me all week.”
Anderson then addressed the 20-year-old in one of the tournament’s most heartfelt and touching moments.
“For me, one of the things that got me to where I am today is hard work. I’ve always worked hard. I saw [Jenson] on the practice court this week probably more than anyone else. I lost my first final, too, so keep your head up and keep working hard.”
More than perhaps any other player, Brooksby has captivated Newport’s tennis-savvy crowd with his incredible strokes and fighting spirit.
“This is one of my favorite cities and favorite tournaments, and the support has been amazing,” Brooksby said. “I hope to come back here again.”
