Dan Evans downs Tallon Griekspoor in Citi Open final for biggest title of career

Dan Evans beat Tallon Griekspoor in the final of the Citi Open in Washington DC to claim the biggest title of his career.

Evans, 33, came through 7-5 6-3 to cap a brilliant run in the States. It is his second career title after the ATP 250 he won in Melbourne in 2021.

The win moves Evans up nine places to No. 21 in the ATP rankings – a career best.

Evans had enjoyed a spectacular week in Washington DC, beating second seed Frances Tiafoe in straight sets and then overcoming Grigor Dimitrov to make the final.

Although he said he felt tired in his semi-final, he looked the better player in the first set against Griekspoor.

Evans missed two chances to break in the fourth game but quickly put the pressure back on his opponent with two love holds.

Griekspoor again got out of trouble facing set point at 5-4 down, but Evans eventually got the breakthrough to take the set.

He brought up set point with a brilliant forehand passing shot down the line, and took his chance to move ahead.

The match was suspended early in the second set due to rain and lightning, before Evans made the crucial breakthrough to grab a 5-3 lead.

Griekspoor carved out four break points as Evans served for the title, but the Brit swatted each one away before sending down a fizzing serve which his opponent could only net to seal victory.

“I wasn’t playing very well and I wasn’t happy with my game. To do the work I’ve done and to stick with it and come through is [amazing],” said Evans.

“The last game sort of summed up my week. I got out of trouble and it was an amazing week. I really appreciate all the support.”

He is the oldest champion in Washington since Jimmy Connors was 35 when he won the event in 1988.