ISTANBUL — Roger Federer won the inaugural Istanbul Open on Sunday, beating third seed Pablo Cuevas 6-3 7-6 (11) for his first clay title in three years.
The world number two took his 85th ATP World Tour title to end a long drought on clay dating back to the 2012 Madrid Masters, which was played on a slick blue surface.
"It's been a while since I won a title on clay," said the jubilant Swiss after receiving a hero's welcome all week in Istanbul. "It's been a pleasure playing here."
After winning the first set in just 33 minutes, Federer found it harder going in the second with Cuevas saving four match points.