Published: Monday, Nov. 09, 2009 / Updated: Monday, Nov. 09, 2009 07:24 AM

Jones locks up Rock hill Rocks Open title with sweep

Eighth seed Sacha Jones of New Zealand won the inaugural Rock Hill Rocks Open tennis tournament on Sunday at the Rock Hill Tennis Center.

Jones, celebrating her 19th birthday, defeated Ani Mijacika of Croatia 6-0, 6-4 in the singles final.

“It was special,” said Jones, who won $2,940 and 50 ranking points in the $25,000 women's USTA Pro Circuit event sponsored by the city of Rock Hill. “First time I've ever played a match on my birthday.”

Ranked 212th in the world in women's singles, Jones has won four straight circuit events, including three tournaments in Australia in September and October. She also won an event in Brownsville, Texas, in June.

“Everything is falling into place,” she said. “I don't have any particular strength or weakness. I've just always been a good competitor.”

Jones, New Zealand's top-ranked women's tennis player, grew up playing many sports. She began focusing on tennis around age 11.

“My whole family plays tennis,” said Jones, whose brother, G.D. Jones, is ranked 786th on the men's circuit. “It was a natural progression for me.”

She is visiting the U.S. for three weeks to play two tournaments. She will play in a $50,000 event in Phoenix this week.

“I think I'm going to enjoy it (the victory) this evening,” Jones said, “and then get on with the next tournament.”

In the final doubles match, the top-seeded team of Sharon Fichman and Anna Tatishvili defeated Lauren Albanese and Jamie Hampton 7-6 (5), 4-6, 10-3.