Intro:

Spaniard David Ferrer claimed his second ATP title of the year at the Rio Open with a 6-2, 6-3 victory over Fabio Fognini.

Script:

Its rare to see a clay court tournament final without Rafael Nadal on one side of the net. But after Fabio Fognini knocked out the defending champion in the semis at the Rio Open, it was him or David Ferrer for the title this time.

Ferrer, the second seed came into the match with seven wins from seven against Fognini, and he quickly took control of the opening set.

Perhaps Fognini's semi final exerts were catching up with him, but Ferrer was at his tenacious best as he took the first set 6-2.

Fognini tied to get a foothold in the second set, but Ferrer quickly snuffed out the danger, and surged ahead to lead 3-1.

And 3-1 swiftly became 5-1 as Fognini was undone by Ferrer's speed around the court.

A slight and uncharacteristic wobble from Ferrer allowed Fognini a glimmer of hope, as he recovered to trail 5-3.

But Ferrer finally got the job done on his second championship point - to win 6-2, 6-3 and claim his first Rio Open title.

Its the 23rd singles championship of his career and another trophy to add to his collection.