ATP 500 QUEEN’S CLUB – London, England. By Leo Canaparo
Francisco Cerúndolo produced the finest achievement of his career on Sunday, capturing the prestigious ATP 500 Queen’s Club title with a hard-fought 6-7(4), 6-4, 6-3 victory over American Tommy Paul in the championship match.
The triumph marks the fifth ATP title of Cerúndolo’s career and his second on grass, following his victory in Eastbourne in 2023—also against Paul and also in a three-set battle. However, given the status and history of the Queen’s tournament, this stands as the most significant trophy of his professional career.
Cerúndolo overcame a high-intensity final under the guidance of Chilean coach Nicolás Massú, the former World No. 9 who officially joined his team this week. Massú watched from the player’s box wearing an Argentina jersey inspired by football legend Diego Maradona as his new pupil staged a remarkable comeback.
The Argentine found himself in a difficult position after dropping the opening set in a tiebreak despite having held an early advantage. His challenges increased in the second set when he trailed 2-3 with a break deficit. Nevertheless, Cerúndolo showed resilience and determination, finding solutions at the crucial moments to level the contest.
The decisive breakthrough arrived midway through the third set when he secured a crucial break for a 4-2 lead. From that point forward, he remained in control, refusing to let the opportunity slip away. After an intense closing stretch, Cerúndolo finally sealed the biggest victory of his career on his fifth championship point, lifting the Queen’s Club trophy and sending a powerful message ahead of Wimbledon.