Ernests Gulbis of Latvia completed a 3-6, 6-4, 6-0 victory over Spain’s Guillermo Garcia-Lopez to secure the St. Petersburg Open title on Sunday. The sixth-seed stormed back in the match after being down 3-6, 1-4 to win his second ATP title of the 2013 season.
The Latvia received $78,000 in prize money plus 250 ranking points which guarantees his return in the world’s top 30. His career high ranking was 21 which he achieved back in February 2011.
“I feel great, it’s my second title of the season – the fourth one of the my career,” said Gulbis. “I’ve been very consistent especially in finals; I’ve never lost in a final. I’m proud of that record.
“I made my short term goals. I’m going to be seeded in Melbourne with these points, so that’s done. Now everything that comes, comes. I have nothing to defend so it’s all good.
“The main key why I’m not yet a top player is the consistency. Everybody knows I can play well for a tournament or a match and then I go downhill. I just need to bring this consistency to bigger tournaments, especially Grand Slams. Then I believe I am a Top 20 player for sure, and not so far from Top 10.”
Garcia-Lopez has a remarkable run this week despite the loss. He upset second-seeded Mikhail Youzhny in the second round. He’s seeking his third ATP title of his career.
“Despite losing today I played some unbelievable tennis all week, so I have to be happy overall with the week,” said Garcia-Lopez. “Congratulations to Ernests, he deserved the title today.”
