Cressy wins first ATP title in Newport

The only tournament played on grass courts in North America is held in conjunction with induction ceremonies into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Australian great Lleyton Hewitt, part of the class of 2021, was enshrined on a side court Saturday evening.

Hewitt was unable attend last year's ceremony due to travel restrictions because of the COVID-19 pandemic. There were no inductees elected for 2022, the first time in the Hall's history. It has been around since 1955.

"It's an incredible feeling winning my first title," said Cressy, who injured his left knee and had to take an injury timeout before the final point of the third set, said.

The 6-foot-6 Cressy raced toward the sideline, trying to make a return when he stumbled to the ground and rolled over. He got up flexing his knee before a trainer was called out.

During the delay, as Cressy was behind the chair umpire, Bublik, standing at a baseline, yelled: "Stop or continue. Make a decision."

There were some boos from the crowd that cheered louder and louder as Cressy made his comeback.

Kazakh Bublik was looking for his second ATP title after capturing Montpellier this year. The 24-year-old was a 2019 runner-up in Newport.

Hall CEO Todd Martin said to Bublik over a microphone during the post-match, on-court ceremony: "Come back. The third time is going to absolutely be a charm."

Bublik, seated in his chair after falling to 1-5 in ATP finals, shook his head "no." 

Trailing 3-0 in the second set under bright sunshine, Cressy held serve before breaking twice in the next three games.

In the tiebreak, there were three breaks on the first three points. Cressy then had an ace to go up 6-3.

Bublik, who entered the week ranked 42nd in the world, double faulted on match point by sending his final serve long.

"Well, there's not much to say," Bublik told the crowd.

"I'm very upset with the outcome and want to congratulate Max on his first title."

Cressy came to Newport ranked 41st.