Robin Soderling Wins Marseille Crown

Robin Soderling saw off Marin Cilic in the final of the Open 13 in Marseille to claim his third title of the season.

The Swede has looked in formidable form since the beginning of the 2011 season, losing just a single match at the Australian Open in January.

Going into the final Soderling had not dropped a set but he was made to come from a set down as Cilic appeared to find some form.

And it was Cilic who made the brighter start as be broke in the opening game to immediately edge ahead.

But Soderling got the set back on level terms in the eighth game as he levelled at 4-4. A tie break was needed to decide the destination of the opening set - Cilic taking it 10-8.

But it was Soderling who was out the blocks quicker in the second set as he got the early break - only to see Cilic level the set at 3-3.

But the world number four then put his foot on the gas as he too three games on the bounce to take the set 6-3 and level the match at a set a piece.

Into the decider and Soderling needed to convert just one of his three break point chances to wrap up a 6-7 (8-10) 6-3 6-3.

Speaking to the ATP after the match Soderling said: "It’s of course a very nice feeling. Winning three tournaments in four tries is something I’ve never been close to before.

"It’s the best possible start. I’ve won many matches and only lost one, unfortunately in the fourth round in Melbourne.

"It’s a great start and I really hope it can continue this way."

The Marseille crown can be added to the titles that he won in Brisbane and Rotterdam - as well as picking up more rankings points to extend his lead over world number five Andy Murray

FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw