David Ferrer says returning to the winner's circle could help extend his career, showing him that he can still be "competitive" on tour.
The Spaniard defeated Alexander Dolgopolov 6-4, 6-4 on his seventh match point to win the ATP event at Bastad. A top ten regular, Ferrer had not won a tournament since Vienna two years ago and dropped to No. 46 in the rankings.
"It's been two years that I haven't won a tournament, so I'm really happy for this win," he was quoted as saying by the ATP website. "I tried to be focused on every point, but when I had all those match points I was thinking too much."
The win will provide extra motivation as he looks to keep playing into his mid-thirties.
"I know it will very difficult to get back to the Top 10," said Ferrer, "but if I stay competitive like this week, I will play next year for sure. I still enjoy playing tennis, but it's different."
It is the 27th title of Ferrer's career.