Qualifier Klizan Claims 2014 Munich Title
Martin Klizan just barely qualified for the BMW Open by FWU AG final earlier in the week, but pushed through eight matches in nine days to lift the championship trophy on Sunday, defeating the 15th ranked player in the world, Fabio Fognini, 2-6, 6-1, 6-2. Klizan struggled early, as he battled through a stomach issue that had him sick the night before, trailing 1-4 in the first set. Fognini would go onto win the first set easily at 6-2, as Klizan had to receive treatment during the first set.
“I had problems with my stomach throughout last night,” said Klizan. “I think I slept only 30 minutes, and I am now very tired. I was down after losing the first set, but I just wanted to keep fighting."
That is exactly what he did, and stormed away from Fognini in the second and third sets. Klizan, the 111th ranked player in the world lost just three games the rest of the match, picking up his 50th career win in the 89 minute match.
It was the first time since June 2013 that a qualifier won an ATP World Tour trophy, as Klizan had to go through a number of top players on his way to the final. He beat defending champion Tommy Haas on Saturday, and knocked off Mikhail Youzhny before that.
“Playing eight matches in nine days-is tough. It is difficult to be fit every day,” said Klizan. “I beat many good players, from Youzhny to Tommy [Haas]. I am very proud of myself that it ended happily.”
On top of the prize money, Klizan was handed a white BMW 420d convertible for his victory.
