Qualifier Alejandro Tabilo produced a remarkable performance on Tuesday to claim the Chengdu Open title, defeating top seed Lorenzo Musetti in a thrilling three-set final.
The Chilean, ranked 112th in the world, secured his first ATP Tour trophy of 2025 and the third of his career with a 6-3, 2-6, 7-6 (7/5) victory in southwestern China.
Facing defeat, Tabilo showed nerves of steel by saving two match points to extend the contest to a deciding tiebreak. Even then, he trailed 1-4 but battled back to level before sealing the match in dramatic style.
“It was an amazing match,” said the 28-year-old, who was born in Canada and has endured a difficult season with injuries and inconsistent form. “I just had to stay there mentally and physically. I’m so happy—it’s unbelievable.”
For Musetti, ranked ninth in the world, it was a heartbreaking repeat of last year’s disappointment, as he once again finished runner-up in Chengdu.
Elsewhere in China, Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik capped off a stellar season with victory at the Hangzhou Open. The third seed edged French qualifier Valentin Royer 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/4) in just under two hours, earning his fourth title of the year.
The focus now shifts to Beijing, where the prestigious China Open gets underway this week, featuring both men’s and women’s draws.
ADD A COMMENT :