Juan Ignacio Chela achieved a rare double triumph on Sunday at the Estoril Open, winning the singles title to go with his doubles victory at the claycourt event.

The fifth-seeded Argentinian rallied for a 6-7 (2/7) 6-3 6-3 victory over eighth seed Marat Safin of Russia in the men's final, one day after pairing with countryman Gaston Gaudio to claim the doubles.

By beating Safin for the first time in four meetings, Chela became the first player to win singles and doubles at the same tournament on the ATP circuit this year and the second to do it here, following Emilio Sanchez in 1990.

"I won singles and doubles, so it's like a dream," Chela said.

"Safin is one of the best players in the world, so it's very important for me. I started the season very well so I hope to keep playing well ahead of Roland Garros, which is my favourite tournament."

Playing in his first final since Long Island in 2002, the 24-year-old South American captured his first title since Amersfoort two years ago and third overall.

Safin was looking to notch his 12th tournament victory, but he lost his second final of the season. After missing most of last year with a wrist injury, he was runner-up at the Australian Open to Roger Federer in January.

"I have to be positive. These kind of losses, they can upset you," Safin said. "But I have to look at it in a positive way.

"I'm playing well, so I'm looking forward and I'm satisfied with the way I'm playing. I have to take it step by step."

After splitting the first two sets in blustery conditions, Chela jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the deciding set.

Although Safin got back on serve at 2-3, Chela won two of the next three games.

The Russian saved three match points, but Chela sealed the win when Safin's backhand sailed long.

"These were very tough conditions because of the wind," Chela said. "It looked like Marat had more trouble with that, especially in the second set, and then I took my chances. I kept my plan for the match, hitting his forehand. I knew it would be a long match so I never lost my nerve."