Nishioka wins the final Atlanta Open title, becomes first non-American or Australian player to win tournament

Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka beat Australian Jordan Thompson to capture his first Atlanta Open title Sunday evening. Nishioka won 4-6, 7-6, 6-3. Nishioka becomes the first Asian and non-American or non-Australian player to win the tournament. “It’s a wonderful thing for making history for the tennis players coming from Asia,” Nishioka said after the match. “Everyone has to follow someone. If I can be [that guy] that younger generations coming up look up to, whether it’s from Japan or [wherever in Asia]. I think it is very big.” Nishioka mentioned J.C. Cheng during his remarks. Even though Cheng lost to Thompson in the semifinals Saturday, Nishioka says Cheng is on his way toward greatness. Thompson won the first set 6-4. Weather played a huge factor in the second set. Thompson trailed 4-5 in the second set. After a 45 minute rain delay, the players returned to the court and played three points. Then the rain came down once again which led to a five hour delay. Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka, right, beat Australian Jordan Thompson to capture his first Atlanta Open title on Sunday, July 28th, 2024 in Atlanta. (Photo courtesy: Anfernee Patterson) “In the second set before the rain came out,...