HOUSTON — In a thrilling showdown, qualifier Jenson Brooksby clinched his inaugural ATP Tour title on Sunday, triumphing over Frances Tiafoe with a score of 6-4, 6-2 in the final of the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship.
The talented 24-year-old from California showcased remarkable resilience, saving five match points throughout the tournament. Notably, he battled through in the semifinals against top-seeded Tommy Paul. In an impressive run, Brooksby dispatched the three highest-seeded players in the competition, including No. 2 Tiafoe and No. 3 Alejandro Tabilo.
Entering the Houston event ranked outside the top 500, Brooksby is poised for a significant leap in the ATP rankings, breaking into the top 175 on Monday. He marks the first American man to snatch an ATP singles title this season, and his victory makes him the first qualifier to win this championship since Fernando Gonzalez of Chile achieved the feat in 2000.
Brooksby made his return to the tour at the Australian Open this January after a challenging two-year hiatus that included two wrist surgeries, a shoulder injury, a coaching change, and a doping-related suspension.
In December, he shared his journey with The Associated Press, reflecting on being diagnosed with autism at a young age, marking the first time he publicly addressed this aspect of his life.
