Francisco Cerundolo beats Tommy Paul to win historic Queen’s title
Francisco Cerundolo has claimed his first Queen’s Club title after defeating Tommy Paul in the longest final in the tournament’s history.
The Argentine eighth seed triumphed 6-7 (4-7) 6-4 6-3 in a gruelling grass-court epic lasting three hours and three minutes.
His American opponent had arrived at the final boasting a nine-match winning streak at the prestigious West London venue following his 2024 victory.
The defending champion initially looked poised to retain his crown after recovering from a 5-3 deficit to capture a 66-minute opening set via a tie-break.
Resilience rewarded in deciding set
Showing immense mental fortitude, the South American challenger fought off a vital break point in the eighth game of the second set.
He subsequently broke serve himself to force a decider before surging into a commanding 5-2 lead.
Despite squandering three match points on his opponent’s serve, the 25-year-old held his nerve to serve out the biggest victory of his career.
“I want to thank my mum and dad – they only arrived for the last two games!”
The emotional victor revealed it was the first time his father had taken a flight to watch him compete outside of their home nation.
“I felt really privileged here this week – you make me feel at home.”
Boulter suffers early exit in Germany
Elsewhere, British number two Katie Boulter endured a frustrating first-round defeat to Leylah Fernandez at the Bad Homburg Open.
The 27-year-old squandered an early advantage to lose 7-6 (7-5) 3-6 3-6 in a punishing three-hour encounter against the Canadian world number 22.
Having actively bypassed the Eastbourne International to compete in Germany, the British star now faces heading into Wimbledon without any further competitive grass-court preparation.
Searle secures landmark Challenger title
In better news for British tennis, former Wimbledon boys’ champion Henry Searle claimed the most significant senior title of his burgeoning career at the Dublin Challenger.
The 20-year-old defeated world number 152 Jurij Rodionov 6-4 6-2 to cap off an outstanding week of performances in the Irish capital.
The rising star is now set to utilise a wildcard for Wimbledon singles qualifying before partnering mentor Dan Evans in the men’s doubles draw.
The forthcoming All England Club appearance will officially mark the final professional tournament for former British number one Evans before his retirement.
