Leander Paes teamed with Redak Stepanek of Czech Republic to clinch the doubles title in the US $355,000 ATP Millennium International Championships at Delray Beach, Florida, on Sunday night.
The second seeded Indo-Czech Republic duo, who combined for the first time, beat top seeded Argentines Gaston Etlis and Martin Rodriguez in straight sets 6-0, 6-3 to clinch the title.
Paes, who in the process picked his fourth title this year, successfully defended the crown he won last year partnering Nenad Zimonjic.
Earlier this year, the Indian won titles in Halle and Gstaad, partnering David Rikl, and at the AMS Canada event along with Mahesh Bhupathi.
Paes and his partner complimented each other on court. They converted three breaks on eight chances in the first set. They converted their fourth break chance of the second set in the eighth game to set the stage for victory.
They did not drop a set in the entire tournament.
"More than anything I was pleased with the rhythm with which we played. We shared strengths and weaknesses. We complemented each other," said the Indian ace.
Brazilian Ricardo Mello defeated Vincent Spadea 7-6(2), 6-3 to win the singles tournament and pick his first career ATP title.
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