World number one Lleyton Hewitt defeated fellow
Australian Mark Philippoussis 6-4 6-4 on Sunday to win his second Franklin
Templeton Tennis Classic crown.
"It's been a wonderful week," Hewitt said. "It was fantastic preparation
for Indian Wells and Miami."
Hewitt recorded one service break in each set, closing out his doubles partner
in 85 minutes. He earned 52,000 US dollars (£32,000) to claim his first title of
the year and 18th of his career.
Philippoussis was vying for his second title here and first since winning at
Memphis two years ago.
"I'm starting to play good tennis again," Philippoussis said.
"Hopefully, there will be a few more Sundays left."
Hewitt improved to 3-1 lifetime against Philippoussis in the first
All-Australian title match since April 16, 2000, when Andrew Ilie beat Jason
Stoltenberg in the final of Atlanta.