Unseeded Italian Andrea Gaudenzi beat fifth-seeded Czech Bohdan Ulihrach 7-5 6-3 in the final of the Swedish Open in Bastad on Sunday.

The Italian had lost to Ulihrach in four previous matches but needed just one hour and 15 minutes to claim the title.

"I am really happy. It was an almost unreal feeling when the match was over," Gaudenzi said.

"I had a fantastic week here. Playing the final in front of a sell-out crowd is always nice.

"I tried to hit a lot on his forehand and play aggressive tennis. But it wasn't easy with the gusty winds.

Third career win

"I lost five consecutive finals before I managed to win my first title, so for me, it's fantastic every time I win a final."

The victory was clay court specialist Gaudenzi's second on the ATP tour this year, following his win at St Poelten in May, and the third of his career.

The Italian was 78th in the ATP Entry System world rankings coming into the Swedish Open, which was played on his favourite surface.

Gaudenzi, 27, won �38,000 and 35 ATP Championship Race points while Ulihrach, 26, earned �23,000 and 24 points.