GORDON REID made history on Sunday as he became the first Brit to win the Japan Open Super Series men’s singles title in Iizuka to secure his return to world number one.
The Helensburgh wheelchair tennis ace beat world number five Nicolas Peifer 7-6 (7-3), 6-1 to win the second Super Series singles title of his career.
It was Reid’s second time in the final in Iizuka. He was also runner-up in 2015 after winning his first Super Series singles title in Sydney in 2014.
Reid went into the final already assured of returning to world number one in the men’s singles rankings.
His own semi-final victory and defending champion and top seed Stephane’s Houdet’s loss to Peifer in the other semi-final meant the 30-point gap between Reid an Houdet at the start of the week will be overturned when the new rankings are published.
Reid said: “I’m very happy to be coming home with the title and regaining my place at the top of the singles rankings.
“This is my first Japan Open title and only my second Super Series title, so it’s one I am very proud of.
"I felt I improved my level throughout the week and produced my best tennis at the important points in the final to clinch the match.
“My performances in Japan have given me a good confidence boost looking ahead to the summer Grand Slams.”
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