Kuerten races to Argentine triumph

Kuerten missed the Brazil's carnival season to take part

World number one Gustavo Kuerten outclassed Jose Acasuso to win the Buenos Aires Open final 6-1 6-3.

The Brazilian required little more than an hour to beat the 18-year-old who was appearing in the first final of his brief professional career.

Having moved back to the top of the ATP entry system rankings with his semi-final victory over Fernando Vicente on Saturday, Kuerten was delighted with his tournament victory.

"A lot of people thought I was the favourite but I knew this would be a tough tournament. To win the title and get back to the top of the rankings is great.

"I've never had such a good start to the year," he added.

The outcome of the match never looked in doubt as Acasuso lost his first service game in both sets.

While Kuerten was at his ruthless best, Acasuso failed to find his big serve.

"I want to apologise to everyone because perhaps they wanted to see a bit more tennis," said the young Argentine.

"It was difficult to play against the best in the world."