Cameron Norrie wins Indian Wells title with win over Nikoloz Basilashvili

Cameron Norrie (right), won his second title and his biggest win of his career.
Cameron Norrie was the Briton who won the Indian Wells title. He fought back after a set and break down to defeat Nikoloz Basilashvili.

To win one of the most prestigious titles in tennis, Norrie, 26, beat the Georgian 3-6 6-4 6-1.

He said, "I'm so happy that I can't even explain it," on court.

Norrie's exploits in California have made him the British number one, and he is currently in contention to win the elite ATP Finals season-ending title.

Norrie will climb to 16th place in the world after starting the year ranked at 74th. He has had a remarkable season, winning six finals and 47 matches.

Despite Norrie leading in the first set, he was unable to break the fast-hitting Basilashvili. The Briton, who is known for his resilience and fitness and has had a successful year, fell in love and forced a decisive set.

The left-hander broke in the third set and saved three break points on the serve to lead 3-0. Unforced errors started to pile up for the Georgian number 36 who sent a forehand long on championship to give Norrie his biggest title.

"He was a great performer and he won so many awards. It was difficult for me to gain confidence. Norrie said that the rallies were short and that he was only blasting winners. He is the first British player to make it to the final at the Masters 1000 event since Andy Murray's victory in Paris in 2016.

"I felt confident after making a few big shots in the 5-4 match in the second set. I was able find my feet again and get moving again. It worked in my favor."

Norrie is a British first

Norrie's victory comes just one month after Emma Raducanu, a compatriot in the US Open win. British tennis is experiencing a revival.

Although Raducanu's sudden rise to British number 1 was dramatic, Norrie's climb to the top was more subtle and built on consistency.

Norrie has seen Novak Djokovic, the world number one, in more finals than any other player. His versatility has allowed him to reach finals on clay, grass, and hard courts.

He won his maiden ATP singles title in July, when he won Los Cabos Open in Mexico. Now he has one of the most prestigious tour titles besides the four Grand Slams.

He also accomplished something no Briton has done: Murray, Tim Henman, and Greg Rusedski all reached the Indian Wells final, but finished as runners-up for California.

Norrie is currently ranked 10th in the race for qualification to next month's eight man ATP Finals in Turin. With eighth-placed Rafal Nadal absent the remainder of the season Norrie is close to overtaking Hubert Hurkacz, and is on track to book a spot.

As he tries to collect enough points to complete the impossible feat that was considered unlikely at the beginning of the season, he will be competing in Paris and Vienna next.

We will keep you posted.