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Zverev downs Shelton to complete Munich Open hat-trick

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4 daysTennis

Alexander Zverev clinched a record-equalling third Munich Open title with a straight-sets victory over Ben Shelton on Sunday. 

Zverev, who won back-to-back tournaments in Germany in 2017 and 2018, completed his hat-trick of wins on home turf with a 6-2 6-4 victory over Shelton. 

He equalled compatriot Philipp Kohlschreiber's record tally of three titles.

The number one seed started as he meant to go on, earning a break of serve in the opening game before sealing the opening set with a dominant love service game. 

Though Shelton offered some resilience in the second, Zverev was able to remain composed and stormed to victory, completing the win following a rally at the net. 

Zverev could also climb to third in the world rankings following his title success should Carlos Alcaraz lose the Barcelona Open final later on Sunday. 

The Spaniard takes on Holger Rune. 

Data Debrief: The perfect birthday present

On what was his 28th birthday, Zverev completed a sensational run in Munich with another fine display to win his ninth ATP Tour title on clay.

Since reaching his third major final at the Australian Open in January, Zverev had struggled for form following early exits at Indian Wells and Monte Carlo, where he was top seed. 

But the German responded in style, dropping just one set, against Tallon Griekspoor, on his way to the final, while he did not face a break point in the showpiece match. 

It was his 24th tour-level trophy, while he also ensured that the tournament's first edition as an ATP 500 event concluded with a German champion, his sixth crown on home soil.