Schalken wins marathon final

Schalken has now won six ATP titles

S Schalken (Holl) bt J Nieminen (Fin)
3-6 6-3 6-3 4-6 6-3

Sjeng Schalken outlasted Finnish qualifier Jarkko Nieminen in a thrilling five-set final at the Stockholm Open.

Schalken came from 0-3 down in the final set to clinch victory after three hours and 30 minutes at the Royal Tennis Hall.

It was the 25-year old Dutchman's first ATP title of the year and his sixth overall.

He became the first Dutchman to win the Stockholm Open, one of the world's oldest indoor tournaments.

Nieminen was playing his eighth match in as many days, following three qualifying matches last weekend.

The fatigue finally showed on the 20-year-old in the fifth set as Schalken's stamina came to the fore.

Nieminen battled bravely in the final

Nieminen knocked out three seeds, including former champions Thomas Johansson and Thomas Enqvist, on his way to the final.

Standing two sets to one down, Nieminen mounted a heroic fightback which took him to a 3-0 lead in the final set.

But Schalken's experience began to tell and the Dutchman levelled at 3-3 and then broke for 5-3 on a pass of the tiring youngster.

Schalken sealed the win with a crisp cross-court pass which left Nieminen flat-footed.

The Dutchman picked up a cheque for $109,000 (about £75,000) and was full of praise for his opponent.

"Jarkko came in playing very well," said Schalken.

"I'm impressed. He serves very well and doesn't miss many shots."

The Finn was the first player from his country to reach the final in an ATP tournament.

Nieminen earned $64,000 (£45,000) for reaching the final - more than he has earned during the entire year.