Roddick retains title at Queens

London:

There was a sense of deja-vu in west London on Sunday when Andy Roddick faced Sebastien Grosjean in the final of the Stella Artois Championship. This time last year both players were also in the final at Queens, with Roddick having the upper hand that time around. Grosjean was out for revenge for that defeat and it looked as if the first set would be his. The Frenchman held two set points at 5-6 on Roddick's serve, but crucially missed a forehand shot with the court wide open. That let the world number two off the hook and the top seed took the set to a tie-break. The 21-year-old made the most of his reprieve and closed out the set 7-4 with his 10th ace, although at 128 miles per hour it was 25 miles per hour down on his world record achieved this week. Grosjean was obviously disappointed but didn't let it show in his play. He broke Roddick's serve to love in the opening game of the second set and the packed Centre Court looked on expecting a tight contest. But it was not to be as Roddick broke straight back, forcing Grosjean into a rare volleying error at the net. The next seven games went with serve and another tie-break was looming until Roddick forced another break point. When Grosjean's backhand drifted wide, the American was able to claim his 14th career title and second on grass. Both players agreed that the final had been perfect preparation for Wimbledon. "I've always performed best at Grand Slams when I've won matches in preparation leading up to the events. So this is perfect preparation for me and I am definitely looking forward to Wimbledon," said Roddick. "Andy played a good match and for me to play one of the best players is perfect for Wimbledon in a week," he added. (AP)