David Nalbandian has dedicated his first ever career ATP title to the people of his native Argentina.

The 20-year-old from the small town of Unquillo captured the Estoril Open with a 6-4 7-6 (7/5) victory over Finland's Jarkko Nieminen.

Nalbandian's only previous appearance in an ATP final came last year on clay in Palermo when he lost to Felix Mantilla.

Speaking of his homeland - currently beset by severe economic problems - Nalbandian said: "I hope this title can bring some happiness to people for at least two or three days."

"This is an unbelievable moment for me," he added. "It's very important for a player to win his first ATP title, and this is something very special to me."

The Argentinian received plenty of support throughout the tournament, in which he defeated top seed and defending champion Juan Carlos Ferrero in the second round before going on to record impressive wins over Sjeng Schalken and former champion Carlos Moya.

His admirers during the final included a group who had travelled all the way from Unquillo.

Nieminen, whose run to the final included a win over Marat Safin, was also all-smiles afterwards despite losing.

"I'm extremely happy to have reached my first ATP clay court final," said the 20-year-old.

"I always like to play in Portugal because I always seem to play very well here."