2004 Jul 11 - Rusedski wins in Newport

Greg Rusedski won his first ATP title in more than a year as he defeated the German Alexander Popp 7-6(5) 7-6(2) in the Campbell's Hall of Fame Tennis Championships in Newport, USA.

The victory brings Greg his 14th ATP career title, extends his grass court win record to a record 78 matches and also ensures he will reclaim his position as British No.2 ahead of Arvind Parmar.

This is the perfect response to sections of the media who believed Greg's career was over following the farcical ATP doping charges which led to a lengthy spell out of competitive tennis while the British star was forced to clear his name at an ATP tribunal.

In a close match against the German - where neither player was able to break serve - the key was who could hold their nerve in two tie-breakers. Greg's experience having won this tournament in 1993 and also with 25 career finals under his belt proved to be distinct advantage over his German rival who was in his first career final.

After the match Greg said:

"My critics were basically telling me to retire. I'm glad I hung in there.

"I think the advantage I had over Popp is this was his first final and it was my 25th.

"This is the start of a comeback. I had a miserable two years. It's a great feeling to come back here 11 years later."