Sebastian Baez cruises past Mariano Navone to win maiden crown

Sebastian Baez claimed the first ATP 500 title of his career at the Rio Open on Sunday in the Brazilian capital.

The 23-year-old Argentine, Sebastian Baez, ended the dream run of countryman Mariano Navone, a qualifier, 6-2, 6-1 in the Rio de Janeiro final.

It is the fifth seed’s first title above ATP 250-level and the fifth tour-level trophy of his career.

“Amazing, amazing. All week I felt so good here in Rio. I said before, I liken [it to] home because of the crowd, the people, everything,” Baez said. “In the preseason, I did one week here, so I know this place, I know the people and I enjoyed [all my] time inside and outside the court.”

Baez won 58 percent of his return points, according to Infosys ATP stats, and broke Navone’s serve six times from 14 chances.

“I think it’s so important because in your first final you’ll be more nervous, of course,” Baez said. “I think I did so well in the start in both sets, so I think that was the key.”

“Amazing, amazing,” Baez said. “But I want more for sure.”

Baez will climb to a career-high No. 21 in the Pepperstone ATP Rankings Monday from No. 30. Navone will crack the Top 100 for the first time at No. 60.