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Kiefer Beats Philippoussis to Win Hong Kong Open
German Nicolas Kiefer defeated Australia's Mark Philippoussis 7-6 (7-4), 2-6, 6-2 in Hong Kong Open tennis final on Sunday.
The German, who took psychologial advantage when he won the first set on a tie-break, destroyed Philippoussis' attack, and sealed the win with ease.
Kiefer, ranked 18th, was put under enormous pressure from the start, surviving three breaks points in the first game of the match and then another two in the fifth game.
But he proved equal to the challenge and hung in, to force the tie-break.
Big-serving Philippoussis, who had blasted compatriot Patrick Rafter out in straight sets in the semifinals, came back strongly in the second set, breaking the German twice to win 6-2.
But it proved to be a false dawn. In the first game in the decider, Philippoussis lost his serve for the first time in the match, courtesy of two double faults and an unforced error.
Kiefer stayed cool to win the next game and then ensured his victory by breaking Philippoussis again in the third game to take a clear 3-0 lead before wrapping up the match.
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