Schenzhen Open 2018: Yoshihito Nishioka Beats Pierre-Hughes Herbert To Win His First Tour-level Title

The maiden tour-level title has gone to Japanese player Yoshihito Nishioka who defeated Frenchman Pierre-Hughes Herbert in three sets by 7-5, 2-6, 6-4 to lift the trophy in Shenzhen. 

The 23-year-old claimed his career first tour-level title after a comeback from injury that devastated his ranking which dropped lower than 300th just about a year ago.

Herbert, 27, who was also bidding for his first maiden title did make efforts, as he fought back strongly at the second set after losing the opener, but could not keep his momentum at the decider with the Japanese who saved his fifth match point as he netted on forehand return after two and half hours of play. 

Nishioka admitted he was a bit anxious at the second set when Herbert claimed straight six match points at 7-5, 2-0 saying, "I was a little bit nervous because i almost got to the trophy. After i lost the second set i changed my mentality, to fight."

"It is not easy. I am very tired right now but my strength is my mentality, my stamina and never giving up." 

Nishioka who is ranked 171th, stands the chance of returning to Top 100th having won the trophy in Shenzhen.