Tennis: Lorenzi, 34, becomes oldest first-time champion

Paolo Lorenzi of Italy celebrates after defeating Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia in their final match. PHOTO: EPA

KITZBUHEL, Austria (AFP) - Italy's Paolo Lorenzi became the oldest first-time winner on the ATP World Tour by defeating Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-3, 6-4 in the Kitzbuhel final on Saturday (July 23).

At 34 years and seven months, Lorenzi surpassed the record set by Victor Estrella Burgos who was 34 years and six months old when he won his maiden title at Quito in February last year.

"I think it's great to win an ATP World Tour trophy. I don't look at the age, so I don't mind if it's happening at 34," said Lorenzi.

"Winning one trophy was a goal for this year, so it's great for me. I hope this is not the last. I'm changing a lot. I need to be more aggressive and improve a lot of things, so this is just the start."

Basilashvili was the first player representing Georgia to reach an ATP World Tour final.

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