Philipp Kohlschreiber triumphs in Kitzbuhel.

The German wasn’t a happy guy one week ago when he retired from the Hamburg semi-final while he was leading Leonardo Mayer because of some muscular problems. The week after it was much better for Philipp that has managed to win his 8th career title after defeating Joao Sousa 6-3 6-4 in the final in Kitzbuhel.

The match against the Portuguese wasn’t that easy for Kohlschreiber that had to rally from behind in both sets. In the opener, the German was 1-2 and a break down to win the set after conquering 5 of the following 6 games. The story repeated itself in the second set when once again Kohlschreiber was 1-3 and a break down to win 5 of the next 6 games before conquering the match.

This is the second time that the German wins the title in Kitzbuhel after 2015. He has also reached the final in 2012.

I have never expected to win this tournament.

Soon after the match, Philipp commented

“It was an amazing week for me. I never expected to win this title when the tournament started. I really enjoy playing here; it is such a nice event. Everyone is doing a great job, and the crowd loves to come here.

I started to play more aggressive and offensive tennis. He is a very good mover on the court. He’s a great fighter and takes the ball early, so I tried to play faster and more aggressive. I was also very focused in the crucial moments, and he was at 30/0 both times I broke him.”