Basilashvili: Qatar ExxonMobil Open is One of the Toughest ATP 250s

Doha, March 14 (QNA) - Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia defeated Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain 7-6(5), 6-2 to capture the 29th Qatar ExxonMobil Open title on Saturday. Following the game, Basilashvili thanked the State of Qatar for the wonderful organization, great hospitality and, public attendance. "I am somehow managing to play good in tougher conditions and tougher matches," said Basilashvili. "This tournament was one of the toughest ATP 250s I have ever seen, probably. We had three Top 10 players. It is interesting to ask why I am playing good in the big tournaments and big matches. It is surprising. At the same time, I am happy." "I am super happy. I was not expecting that but, at the same time, I was working a lot," said Basilashvili. "I was feeling good on the court. I was playing the last half a year with a lot of stress in my body. I was not able to put 100 per cent on the court in any matches. This week, I somehow found a way to deal with the stressful moments. I am very happy to get through to the title." "There were very strong gusts today, but I had good mindset. From the beginning, I was accepting things very good," said Basilashvili. "I was concentrated on just playing the game and just looking at the ball and moving a lot. It was tough physically, as well, because for sure you have to move twice as hard and I managed that." "I dont like to lose. I think I could have played a better but, today, it was his final. I want to congratulate Basilashvili," Bautista Agut said in an on-court interview. "He played great. He played very aggressive. Now it is time to recover, to keep working, to keep improving and hopefully I can come back next year and try to get the title again." (QNA)