For the second time in two days, Maximo Gonzalez and Andres Molteni snatched victory from the jaws of defeat on the Western & Southern Open. This time round, it earned the Argentine duo its maiden ATP Masters 1000 triumph.
Gonzalez and Molteni saved championship level to down Jamie Murray and Michael Venus 3-6, 6-1, 11-9 on Sunday in Cincinnnati for the largest title of their careers. Having additionally saved two match factors of their semi-final win in opposition to second seeds Ivan Dodig and Austin Krajicek, it capped an emotional weekend for the unseeded pair, which has now gained a Tour-leading 5 titles in 2023.
“It means loads. We have now labored very onerous for a few years, not solely this 12 months, so it’s a terrific accomplishment,” mentioned Molteni. “It was a really robust week, ultimate, every thing, so we’re very pleased with this title. It’s the largest title we’ve got, so we’re very glad.”
Argentina all-stars 🇦🇷🏆
Gonzalez/Molteni save Championship level for a fascinating 3-6 6-1 11-9 overcome Murray/Venus@CincyTennis | #CincyTennis pic.twitter.com/SHZrQxxoE1
— ATP Tour (@atptour) August 20, 2023
Gonzalez particularly thrived beneath strain on the tailend of the 84-minute ultimate. The 40-year-old despatched down a second-serve ace when dealing with championship level at 8/9 within the Match Tie-break, and two factors later he struck the decisive return off a Venus function the pair improved to 5-0 in tour-level finals for the 12 months.
“They began higher than us, however we at all times maintain preventing,” mentioned Gonzalez. “We all know one another, we all know we’re a workforce that fights for each ball. We knew we might have an opportunity, and we took it within the second set. We’re used to enjoying Match Tie-breaks, and we’re actually, actually glad for this title.”
With their title run in Cincinnati, Gonzalez and Molteni have risen seven spots to 3rd within the Pepperstone ATP Stay Doubles Groups Rankings. The pair is now 32-14 in 2023, with their newest triumph a major enhance as each Gonzalez and Molteni chase a debut look on the season-ending Nitto ATP Finals.
“I believe [it helps that] we are able to practise collectively in our dwelling, Buenos Aires,” mentioned Molteni. “We have now an excellent relationship. We’re pals, so that’s simpler in the course of the season, travelling all of the weeks collectively. We have now environment between us. I believe that’s the important thing for enjoying good on the court docket as properly.”
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