Kevin Anderson captures first title since 2019 at the Hall of Fame Open

It’s impossible not to feel happy for Kevin Anderson. After an injury-plagued 2019 and 2020, the 35-year-old blasted his way past Jenson Brooksby to capture his seventh career ATP title, and his first since 2019.

Anderson staved off two set points in the first set, ultimately winning 7-6 (8), 6-4, firing 16 aces in the process.

“I guess I’m towards the end but this tournament has given me motivation to keep going,” Anderson said. “I’ve played a lot of tournaments in my career and this one is as good as it gets.”

"It couldn’t be a better week for me to start my comeback. I need a few days off but I’d like to thank everyone for supporting me all week.”

Anderson then turned to address the 20-year-old in one of the most sincere and touching moments of the tournament.

"For me one of the things that has gotten me where I am is working hard. I’ve always put in the hours. I saw [Jenson] on the practice court probably more than anyone else this week. I lost my first final as well, so keep your head up and keep working hard.”

More so than perhaps any other player, Brooksby won the tennis-savvy Newport crowd with his incredible shotmaking and fighting spirit.

“This is one of my favorite cities and favorite tournaments, the support was amazing,” Brooksby said. “I hope to be back here again."