India’s HS Prannoy clinched the 2016 Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold after beating Marc Zwiebler of Germany in straight games 21-18 21-15 in the final in Basel on Sunday.
The opening game saw the 13th seed Indian get off the blocks first as he took a 4-3 lead but some fine play from the German meant it was soon 7-7 and after some topsy-turvy play, Prannoy went into the interval with an 11-10 advantage.After the break, the Indian continued to hold the edge even as Zwiebler remained in contention, but the tide shifted totally in favour of Prannoy from the 17-17 mark when he 4 out of the next 5 points to win the opening game 21-18.
Trending
He then took that confidence into the second game as well, leading Zwiebler 3-0 early in the second game, and even though the German didn't look totally out of the game at any point, he couldn't quite take the lead at any stage and at the break, Prannoy once again led 11-7.
After the break, the Indian continued to all the aces and with some fine play both near as well as away from the net, maintained a tight grip over proceedings. It didn't help Zwiebler’s cause that a few tight calls went against him and he eventually lost the game 15-21 to give Prannoy his maiden Swiss Open title.
This is now the second consecutive year that an Indian has won the Men’s Singles title in Basel after Kidambi Srikanth triumphed here last year.
Final Scoreline- HS Pranoy beat Marc Zwiebler 21-18 21-15
Speaking after his win, Prannoy said, “It is a big win for me and I am very happy! Beating Marc Zwiebler, who is so much more experienced, and has been a former top 5 player, is a big confidence boost for me. Last year was tough, but I am happy with my performances this year. I hope to carry my form going into the India Open and the rest of the season. I am grateful to my coach - Gopi Bhaiyya for his guidance. I would like to thank the GoSports Foundation and my support team for assisting me and believing in my potential. I also want to thank my sponsors, Yonex, for their support."
