By IANS
Melbourne : World No.6 Andy Roddick of the US completed his title hat trick at the AAMI Classic tennis tournament here Saturday, defeating Marcos Baghdatis of Cyprus 7-5, 6-3 in the final.
Roddick continued his fine run as he fired 10 aces en route to his title victory that came in just 76 minutes.
Roddick had defeated German Tommy Haas in 2006 and last year prevailed over world number one Swiss Roger Federer, who did not participate in the Australian Open tune-up tournament due to a stomach virus.
By achieving this feat, Roddick has equalled the record of fellow American Michael Chang who claimed this title three years in a row starting 1995.
“To be a part of history is always nice,” said Roddick, who did not drop a set over the four-day tournament, in which the top eight seeds of the world compete.
“I hope that my form from this week is indicative of how I’ll do next week,” said Roddick.
“I’m only looking ahead as far as Mr Qualifier for the Open,” he said of his opening round match at the first Grand Slam of the year.
However, Baghdatis, who was the late substitute for ailing Federer, said that he needs some more match practice before the Australian Open starting Monday.
“I have had a good four days here. I’m really happy to have played this week,” said Baghdatis.
“I still need some more matches, but I hope to go well next week, though I felt a bit heavy today.”