Tsonga prevails in 2012 Qatar ExxonMobil Open

Third-seeded Jo-Wilfried Tsonga won the 2012 Qatar ExxonMobil title on Sunday after beating compatriot Gael Monfils 7-5, 6-3. It was the first-ever all-French final in Doha.

“At the beginning of the match, it was a bit difficult because he broke me very early. It was tough. But in my head, everything was right,” the new champion said.

Both players posted contrasting victories in the semifinals. Monfils eliminated top-seed Rafael Nadal while Tsonga got an easy trip to the final after second-seed Roger Federer pulled out prior to their scheduled match due to back injury.