Harsh Mankad claims first pro title

India Davis Cupper Harsh Mankad has won his first professional title at the $10,000 Canada F1 satellite tournament, defeating Lazar Magdincev of Macedonia 6-7(6), 6-3, 7-5. The tournament was played at Mississauga near Toronto, Canada.

Mankad's win is the first pro title win by an Indian outside of the Indian sub-continent after Leander Paes' win in Newport in July 1998. Even the last futures title by an Indian was in January 1998, when Fazaluddin won the Chandigarh event.

The title gives Harsh 12 ATP points to add to the 31 he already has. His current points were going to fall off in three weeks.

Magdincev, though ranked in the 800s, was in great form throughout the week, not dropping a set en route to the finals. Harsh played superb tennis throughout the week -- in four consequtive matches, the Indian came back after being a set down.

Earlier, Harsh defeated Mario Ancic 3-6, 7-5, 6-1 in the semifinal.

Earlier report:
Harsh Mankad rallies to make semis
Good going for Indians on international circuit