KARLOVIĆ BECOMES OLDEST CHALLENGER CHAMPION

Calgary National Bank Challenger (Calgary, Canada): Ivo Karlovic is seeking a late-career resurgence as the former World No. 14 makes one last push to return to the Top 100 of the ATP Rankings. On Sunday, the 'ace king' took a big step towards achieving that goal, reigning at the $75,000 event in Calgary, Canada.

At 39 years and seven months, Karlovic etched his name in the record books in the process, becoming the oldest winner in ATP Challenger Tour history. Dick Norman previously held the honour for nearly a decade, having prevailed in Mexico City in 2009 at the age of 38 years and one month.

Karlovic defeated Jordan Thompson 7-6(3), 6-3 to clinch the 16th title of his career (ATP World Tour & ATP Challenger Tour combined). He fired a total of 126 aces on the indoor hard courts of Calgary. The Croatian, who also reached the final two weeks ago in Monterrey, Mexico, is up 13 spots to No. 108 in the ATP Rankings. 

"It was a very difficult match," said Karlovic. "He was serving very well. Not as hard, but a good placement. But at the end of the match, I was able to control it. It has been an excellent week. I enjoyed it a lot here and had a great experience. This tennis centre is unbelievable."

Oldest Challenger Winners