Ryan Sweeting Wins First ATP Tour Title at Men's Clay Court Championships

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On Sunday, in his first final, wild card Ryan Sweeting made America proud by winning his first ATP Tour singles title at the age of 23 at Houston's US Men's Clay Court Championships.

He defeated sixth seed Kei Nishikori in a windy match 6-4, 7-6(3). Sweeting owns a 1-4 head-to-head record against Nishikori.

Nishikori seemed tired and was struggling in the wind. Often, the gusty wind worked against his drop shots, as they would fly out. Sweeting effectively returned serve and hit deep forehands.

"I definitely didn't want to see a third set," Sweeting said. "I don't think both of us felt our best. It took a while to get a rhythm out there, missed more balls than usual and it was just important to get first serves in and stay aggressive."

Sweeting takes with him $80,650 prize money and 250 points in the rankings, which should raise him to the top 70s from being the World No. 93—not bad ;). This was not Sweeting’s first final in Houston because he actually made the doubles final in 2009 with partner Jesse Levine.

Sweeting joins the likes of South African Kevin Anderson, Croatian Ivan Dodig, Canadian Milos Raonic and Spanish Pablo Andujar as first-time 2011 winners. He is now the fifth-highest-ranked American, above Robert Kendrick and Michael Russell. 

"Definitely will be celebrating for sure!" said Sweeting with a smile. 

He went ahead and followed the River Oaks Club tradition of jumping into the pool as the new defending champion.

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