Felix Auger-Aliassime beats Hubert Hurkacz to Retain Basel Title

Felix Auger-Aliassime retained his crown in Basel after defeating polish Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(3), 7-6(5) on Sunday.

The 23-year-old Canadian who clinch the tile in front of a packed crowd in Basel, took down Hubert Hurkacz to.lift his first title of the year.

“I’m happy that I was able to prove to everybody that I still belong among the best players in the world, that I can play this level. I never doubted it, but it’s good to confirm it on the court.”

Victory for Auger-Aliassime now means he is the first Canadian to defend an ATP Tour title since Milos Raonic won the San Jose title in 2011 and 2012.

“I’m definitely back. I let my racquet talk. That’s always been the motto of my career. I’ve had the conviction that I can be a top player since I’m a kid, but there were many doubts this year about my performances and why,” Auger-Aliassime said in his on-court interview.

“A lot of tough times. It was a new challenge this year being away from the court, trying to manage, play tournaments through injuries with painkillers and things like this and still today actually,” Auger-Aliassime said. “It’s been a tricky year overall, but this feels extra special, even more than last year. I think with the first title [of the year] is the sweetest for sure. So I’m going to enjoy this one.”

His triumph significantly damaged Hurkacz’s chances of qualifying for the ATP Finals. In the Pepperstone ATP Live Race To Turin, if the Polish player had taken first place, he would have closed the gap on eighth-place Holger Rune by fifteen points, securing the last qualifying position. Rather, he behind the Dane by 215 points going into the Rolex Paris Masters.

“I’m happy for your victory. Obviously I wish the result was different, but definitely you deserved it,” Hurkacz said while congratulating Felix during the trophy ceremony. “It was definitely a tricky season for you but you’re an amazing player. You proved it here.”