Djokovic repeats as Dubai champion

Djokovic, ranked No. 2 in the world, survived a charge from Youzhny in winning the final 7-5, 5-7, 6-3. It was the 17th career title for Djokovic, who took home $383,000 with the win. Youzhny won $180,000 as the tournament runner-up.

Djokovic won the final despite 12 double faults and dropping serve six times. However, he broke Youzhny's serve seven times, with two breaks in the third set being the difference in the nearly 3 1/2-hour match.

The tournament was to have wrapped up Saturday but officials suspended play because of rain with Djokovic ahead 2-0 in the second set. Youzhny tied the final at a set apiece with three breaks after play resumed Sunday.

In the third set, Djokovic won as many points on Youzhny's serve (13-13) and fought off five of six break-point situations. Djokovic jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the final set only to have Youzhny tie it at 3-3. But Djokovic saved a break point and went ahead 4-3, finished off a final break himself and served out for the title.

Copyright 2010 United Press International.