Richard defeated Paul-Henri Mathieu 4-6 7-5 6-2 for the title in Caen.
The outcome of the first set was mainly influenced by Mathieu's great returns, notably on Richard 's second serve. Richard was broken in the third game, but managed to level for 3 all. Another break for Mathieu sealed the set for him: 6-4. In the second set, the match went on serve with Richard winning his service games easily until 4 all. He had to save a breakpoint in the 9th game and the match turned around after he achieved to hold his serve. He was a different player and broke PHM at the end of the set. Even if Richard had to save breakpoints again at the start of the final set, he looked the better player now. He survived the critical moment and broke Mathieu twice for a 4-6 7-5 6-2 victory with some fine BH and return winners in the third set.
