Barrena Celebrates Breakthrough Win
In South America, Argentina’s Alex Barrena was crowned champion at the AAT Challenger Santander Tucumán. In the final, Barrena defeated his compatriot Santiago Rodríguez Taverna, 7-5, 6-2, after an hour and 43 minutes.
The 22-year-old from Buenos Aires enjoyed the best week of his professional career, claiming his first ATP Challenger title in his home country. In the final, he showcased great composure and confidence in his shots, overcoming Rodríguez Taverna, who had recently won an ITF World Tennis Tour M25 event in Chacabuco.
Holding the trophy, Barrena was emotional: “It was a dream week. I have been through tough times, but I managed to show my best tennis, and that makes me incredibly happy.”
Impressively, Barrena closed out each of his quarterfinal, semifinal and championship wins with aces.
“The serve is extremely important—especially the footwork and looseness in the upper body. In key moments, I trust my serve, and that gives me a huge boost,” he said.
On his way to the title, Barrena defeated Nicolás Kicker in the first round, Franco Roncadelliin the round of 16, Mariano Kestelboim in the quarterfinals and Murkel Dellien in the semis.
