In a dominant display of skill and determination, Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz clinched his first-ever clay-court title at the Millennium Estoril Open in Estoril, Portugal. The No. 2 seed, Hurkacz, showcased his prowess on the clay surface, defeating Pedro Martinez of Spain with a commanding score of 6-3, 6-4 in the final.
Hurkacz’s performance was marked by an impressive display of serving prowess, recording a total of 15 aces throughout the match. He asserted his dominance by winning 29 out of 35 first-serve points and remarkably did not face any break points throughout the entire encounter. Despite Martinez’s efforts, including saving 3 out of 5 break points, he was unable to match Hurkacz’s level of play.
With this victory, Hurkacz extends his head-to-head record against Martinez to 3-0 on the ATP Tour. Furthermore, the triumph propels Hurkacz to a career-high-tying No. 8 in the PIF ATP Rankings, marking a significant milestone in his career trajectory. On the other hand, Martinez’s commendable performance throughout the tournament sees him rise 17 spots to No. 60 in the rankings.
Despite Martinez’s valiant efforts, he struggled to gain momentum in the final, never managing to secure a lead against the determined Hurkacz. The match lasted for 87 minutes, during which Hurkacz demonstrated his resilience and composure under pressure, ultimately emerging victorious and clinching his eighth career ATP Tour crown.
In other ATP Tour action:
Italian Matteo Berrettini claimed victory at the Grand Prix Hassan II in Marrakech, Morocco, defeating defending champion Roberto Carballes Baena of Spain in the final with a score of 7-5, 6-2. Berrettini, a 2021 Wimbledon finalist, showcased his return to form after overcoming an ankle injury, securing his first ATP Tour title since his triumph at Queen’s Club two years ago.
At the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship in Houston, No. 1 seed Ben Shelton of the United States emerged victorious in a hard-fought final against countryman and No. 3 seed Frances Tiafoe. Shelton secured a 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 victory, becoming the event’s youngest champion since Andy Roddick in 2002. Despite Tiafoe’s resilience, Shelton’s commanding performance, including 11 aces, proved decisive in clinching the title.
Overall, the weekend’s ATP Tour action showcased thrilling matches and remarkable performances, highlighting the competitive spirit and talent within the tennis world.
