Grosjean grabs first title in five years in Lyon

LYON, France, Oct 28 (Reuters) France's Sebastien Grosjean clinched his first title in five years when he won the Lyon tournament by beating compatriot Marc Gicquel 7-6 6-4 today.

Grosjean, who had won his last title in St Petersburg in 2002, played solid tennis throughout to wrap up victory in one hour 36 minutes.

Gicquel was beaten by compatriot Richard Gasquet in last year's Lyon final.

Both players held serve in the first set with Grosjean winning the tie break 7-5 with a forehand winner after 54 minutes. The former French number one broke decisively in the ninth game of the second set but Gicquel saved three match points.

Grosjean, however, served his 15th and 16th aces of the match before sealing the win with a stunning cross-court passing shot.

''It was hard to finish it off,'' said Grosjean, who now has four titles to his name. ''I served well throughout and I am very happy today.'' Gicquel, who did not create a single break chance before the last game, said: ''Seb deserves his victory. He played very well, served very well. However, I am happy with the way I've played this week.'' REUTERS TB AS2226