Cerundolo Claims Buenos Aires Title, Defeats Darderi in Straight Sets

Buenos Aires, Argentina – Francisco Cerundolo secured his first home-soil victory on Sunday, defeating Luciano Darderi 6-4, 6-2 to win the IEB+ Argentina Open. The win marks a significant milestone in the Argentine’s career, fulfilling a long-held ambition.

Dominant Performance from Top Seed

The 27-year-old Cerundolo, ranked No. 19 in the world and the tournament’s top seed, delivered a clinical performance at the Buenos Aires Lawn Tennis Club. He overcame the second-seeded Italian, Darderi, in straight sets to claim the trophy. Cerundolo did not drop a set throughout the entire tournament.

Path to the Championship

Cerundolo’s journey to the title included several impressive victories:

• Quarterfinals: Defeated Vit Kopriva 6-4, 6-3
• Semifinals: Defeated Tomas Martin Etcheverry 6-3, 7-5

Darderi’s Run to the Final

Luciano Darderi, 24, reached the final after dispatching Sebastian Baez 7-6 (2), 6-1 in the semi-finals. However, he struggled to find his rhythm against Cerundolo’s powerful forehand and the enthusiastic home crowd.

Emotional Win for Cerundolo

This victory holds particular significance for Cerundolo, who previously fell short in finals at the Buenos Aires Lawn Tennis Club against Diego Schwartzman and Joao Fonseca. He described winning in his hometown as a “box to tick” before his career ends.

Doubles Champions Crowned

In the men’s doubles final, Rafael Matos and Orlando Luz (3) of Brazil defeated Andrea Collarini and Nicolas Kicker of Argentina 7-5, 6-3.

Source: Tennis Majors