Dominic Thiem powers his way to Rio Open title

Second-seeded Dominic Thiem, of Austria, beat fourth-seeded Pablo Carreno Busta 7-5, 6-4 to claim the 2017 Rio Open title on Sunday at the Jockey Club Brasileiro.

Thiem made quick work of his Spanish counterpart, winning in 1 hour and 34 minutes. He hammered 25 winners, including seven aces, while breaking Carreno Busta four times.

The title is Thiem's eighth of his career.

"I am feeling really great," Thiem said. "This is the best feeling you can have, winning a title. It's all you practice for. I played five very good matches, especially in the semis and final against amazing players.

"I did same thing last year, going from clay to hard in Acapulco and I did well. It's a slower hard court with a high bounce, so it's what I like. It's not easy with the travel and time difference, but the confidence is high and I'm feeling great."

Thiem did not drop a set in the tournament, but had to battle back in the first one Sunday. Carreno Busta took the early 3-2 lead with a break, but Thiem broke right back and eventually converted his third set point.

Thiem takes $314,880 in prize money and 500 ATP Rankings points, while Carreno Busta won $154,370 in prize money and 300 rankings points.

"Obviously, I'm very happy after a week like this," Carreno Busta said. "Winning the title in doubles and reaching the final in singles is great. Dominic is a fantastic player and is going to win many more titles in the coming years. I hope I can play more finals against him.

"Physically, I felt great all week. I'm a little tired, but that's normal after these couple of days. I have a few days to rest and now I'm looking forward to Sao Paulo."