Cerundolo, Cressy join list of first-time ATP title winners

Playing in his second ATP final, Francisco Cerundolo won his first title by beating Sebastian Baez 7-6(4), 6-2 at the Nordea Open on Sunday afternoon.

The tide turned in Cerundolo’s favor in a crucial game while he served at 5-5 in the opening set. Baez generated a whopping six break points but could not convert, as Cerundolo managed to hold and eventually force a tiebreaker. The 23-year-old never relinquished momentum the rest of the way, dominating the ‘breaker and also the third set to triumph after one hour and 49 minutes.

Each of Cerundolo’s two finals have been all-Argentine showdowns. He lost at home in the 2021 Buenos Aires tournament to Diego Schwartzman 6-1, 6-2.

His second try went much better.

“It feels amazing,” Cerundolo assured. “[Winning the title] means a lot. Since you are a child you imagine yourself playing in these events and finals. When I lost in Buenos Aires I was sad, because I was at home and I lost badly. But I learned a lot from that. I used it today, and I think I played a great match–a great week.”

At the Hall of Fame Open, Maxime Cressy was also bidding for his first ATP title in what was his third final. It did not look good when he trailed Alexander Bublik 6-2, 3-0, but the 25-year-old American stormed back for a 2-6, 6-3, 7-6(3) victory.

“It’s an incredible feeling to win my first title,” Cressy commented. “I never thought I would win it this way. I played my first ATP tournament [in Newport], and it’s always an incredible atmosphere. There were a lot of ups and downs today but I’m very proud of myself for fighting through it.”

The former UCLA standout climbs to No. 33 in the rankings, and with few points to defending during the hard-court summer he is a virtual lock to be seeded at the U.S. Open.

“That was my first goal, to be seeded at the U.S. Open,” he noted. “I’m glad it’s already accomplished. It’s incredibly special to see the success coming and that the hard work is paying off. It’s the most fulfilling feeling and I’m really looking forward to more.”