Nishioka slams Shapo to win Seoul title

Yoshihito Nishioka laid a 6-4, 7-6(5) beatdown on Denis Shapovalov Sunday in the ATP Seoul final to deny the Canadian a second career trophy.

The Japanese collected his own second title thanks to a comeback from 1-3 down in the second set as he wrapped up victory in just under two hours.

“This week was amazing for me,” the winner said, “I played very well on the court, my mentality and attitude. 

“I just focused on the play, which was very important. I played very well, tried to figure out how to beat the opponent.

“I fought in every match this week.”

Nishioka’s victims here included top seed and ATP No. 2 Casper Ruud along with Britain’s Dan Evans.

The winner, now 2-0 against Shapovalov, played a tactical match, lifting the trophy despite just 14 winners compared to 38 of his losing opponent.

“He has a big serve and a big forehand, but I didn’t need to worry about that. I just focused on playing many balls and putting pressure on him.”

The title was the first for Nishioka since winning Shenzhen four years ago.

Main photo:-Yoshihito Nishioka celebrates victory in Seoul by ATPTour.com