The win marks the astonishing high of an incredible season for Nori – who was ranked 74th in the world at the start of the year. Today they are number 15 in the world and number one in the UK.
“It means a lot to me, my biggest title. I’m so happy, I can’t even describe it right now,” Norrie said during his on-court interview after the match.
“It’s absolutely tremendous for me and my team. I really can’t believe it.”
The victory in Mexico came just weeks after an impressive Wimbledon appearance against Roger Federer – Nori provided a tough test for the eight-time champion in a 4-6, 6-4, 5-7, 4-6 round of 32 losses . ,
Norie made history before the ball hit the Indian Wells final, becoming the first British player to reach the Masters 1000 event after Andy Murray’s victory in Paris in 2016.
“I’m really enjoying my tennis and really enjoying being out on the court and competing in the big moments,” Norrie said.
“I’m really happy with how I handled this opportunity, and I think I’m doing a lot better this year. I know I’ve lost a lot of finals so it’s good to be big today”
counter attack
Britain were forced to return from a set-down after a strong start from 27th-ranked Basilashvili in the world.
Working for a 3-1 lead in the second set, the 29-year-old Georgian looked ready to take charge, but Nori broke his serve and never looked back to level the match and win the third set. kept needing.
“I was a little uncomfortable” [early on],” Nori admitted.
“It was quite the wind. For a stage, he hit and hit several winners. It was hard for me to gain some confidence. The rallies were really short and he was just destroying the winners.
“But when I hit some big shots in the second set, it gave me a lot of confidence, and I was able to find my feet again, start running again and make the rallies as physical as I’ve been doing.” It was all tournaments and it worked in my favor.”
After teen sensation Radukanu’s stunning US Open win in September, Norrie continues to do well in British tennis.
“Going into the match, I didn’t put any pressure on myself because I’m very inexperienced in my mind,” Radukanu told reporters after the match.
“I’m 18. I need to loosen myself up a little.”