Egypt’s Mohamed El Shorbagy (pic le) survived the longest match of his career to win the Internationaux de la Reunion in Saint Pierre – and deny Reunion-born Thierry Lincou (pic ri) the successful defence of his title on Reunion Island. Top-seeded Frenchman Lincou, the 35-year-old world No8, took the opening game. But 2nd seed El Shorbagy, who beat his illustrious opponent in their first meeting in the 2008 World Open, battled back to take the next 2 games. Lincou dug deep to survive a 4th game tie-break to draw level. In the thrilling decider favourite Lincou reached match-ball on 4 occasions. But it was the younger player who ultimately prevailed as El Shorbagy closed out the match 5-11, 11-5, 11-4, 10-12, 15-13 after 112 minutes to win the 3rd PSA Tour title of his career.
