Korda wins Washington Open 32 years after father
- Published
Sebastian Korda said it was "probably the most special moment" of his career as he emulated his father by winning the Washington Open.
The 24-year-old beat Flavio Cobolli 4-6 6-2 6-0 on Sunday to win the second title of his career.
Sebastian's father, Petr, won the competition in 1992, making them the first father and son to win the same title in ATP Tour history.
"We [the Korda family] have a lot of history with this tournament. One of my biggest goals was one day coming here and hopefully winning the tournament and putting my name up there on the stadium," said Korda.
"This is probably the most special moment of my career so far."
Sebastian's coach Radek Stepanek, who was once coached by Petr, won the 2011 Washington Open.
The victory against Cobolli means Korda will rise to a career-high ranking as the world number 18.
Elsewhere, former world number two Paula Badosa beat Marie Bouzkova 6-1 4-6 6-4 to win her first title in over two years.
The 26-year-old fell out of the top 100 in 2023 after suffering a stress fracture in her back.
But the Spaniard's victory against Bouzkova means she will re-enter the top 50, having gained a wildcard to compete in Washington.
"Especially what I went through the last year, for me being back, winning big titles like a 500, winning the best players in the world, competing against them again, for me it means a lot," Badosa said.
"One year ago I was on the couch so it's a big difference now. Now I'm an athlete again."