Roddick claims San Jose title

Top seed Andy Roddick claimed a third SAP Open title on Sunday after defeating fourth-seeded Czech Radek Stepanek 6-4 7-5.

The 25-year-old American, who captured back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2005, picked up his 24th career title after improving his impressive San Jose record to 25-4 in 80 minutes.

World number six Roddick broke Stepanek in the first game of the match and again in the penultimate game to secure the win to maintain his 100% career record over the world number 34.

In 2006 and 2007, Roddick suffered semi-final defeats by eventual champion Andy Murray, who did not defend his title this year.

“I served well,” said Roddick, who recorded 13 aces. “He didn’t really give me many chances, so luckily, a break of serve in each set was good.

“It felt good. You survive a couple tough ones, you give yourself a chance to play well. I did that this week, and was able to bring my best stuff out in the semi and the final.”

Stepanek, who reached the final by rallying to defeat American wild card Robby Ginepri in three set, lamented his slow start.

“I had a bad start, losing the first game, which is what I didn’t want to do against Andy when he’s serving big,” said Stepanek. “He didn’t give me any chance to get back into the first set.”