Albert Montanes won his first career ATP title on Sunday, rallying past defending champion Steve Darcis in the final of the Dutch Open.

Montanes, 27, ended a nine-year drought without a title courtesy of his 1-6 7-5 6-3 triumph over Darcis, who claimed his first career title at this clay-court tournament last season.

"I've always dreamt about winning an ATP title," Montanes said.

"This moment is very special for me."

The world's 63rd-ranked player, Montanes had previously reached the final of an ATP event four times - all on clay.

But Montanes, the fifth seed in this event, overcame a slow start on Sunday to finally break through, winning 75 per cent of his first-serve points and converting three breaks.

After getting routed in the first set, Montanes went up a break early in the second to battle his way back into the match.

"In the first set, Steve played really well and didn't give me many chances," Montanes said.

"Then I think his level dropped in the beginning of the second set, and I was able to take advantage of that and started playing my game.

"I was not thinking too much about having lost the previous four ATP finals I played. I was just focusing on each point and fighting hard for every ball."

Bidding for his third career title, the third-seeded Darcis fired nine aces but committed five double-faults.

"I think I played a very good first set, but after that not so good," the Belgian said. "He played a very solid match, so I only have to congratulate him for winning his first ATP title."