France’s Arthur Fils beats American Frances Tiafoe in 3 sets to win the Cincinnati Open

MASON, Ohio (AP) — French tennis player Arthur Fils claimed his maiden Masters 1000 title by defeating American opponent Frances Tiafoe in a three-set match at the Cincinnati Open on Sunday. This marked the first time two Black players faced each other in an ATP Masters 1000 final.

Fils marked a significant milestone as he became the youngest French champion in Masters 1000 history at just 22 years old. He secured his victory with a 6-3, 1-6, 6-0 scoreline, which included 11 aces and a 71% first-serve success rate.

The match witnessed both players dominating their respective sets. In the first set, Fils led 3-0 after winning 12 out of 13 points. In the second set, Tiafoe took the lead with a 3-0 advantage, winning 9 of 10 points. Despite saving two match points in the third set, Fils ultimately clinched the win with a firm 6-0 performance.

This win marked Fils' second meeting with Tiafoe in the Cincinnati Open final, with their first encounter occurring in Miami last year, also resulting in a three-set victory for Fils.