Safiullin maintains perfect record in finals
The title marks Safiullin’s eighth ATP Challenger crown—remarkably won in eight finals—and underlines his strong comeback after missing the second half of the 2025 season due to injury.
“I am feeling good,” said the former world No. 36, who spends most of his practice weeks in Marbella, Spain. “Winning a Challenger after the injury was very nice. I am on the way back – not 100 per cent yet, but very close, and I still have room to improve.”
Safiullin earned € 23,750 in prize money as well as 100 ATP Ranking points, currently sitting at world No. 144. His schedule now includes a training block followed by a return to Oeiras and the qualifying at Roland Garros.
Faria eyes Top 100 return
Despite falling just short, Faria also left Mauthausen with confidence. “It’s my second final this year. Even if it’s another loss, it’s a very good start to the season,” the 22-year-old from Lisbon said. “Roman is an incredible player. I’ll try to follow him in the rankings and hopefully see him again at the big tournaments soon.”
Faria is steadily carving out his place on the professional tennis circuit. The current world No. 119—who reached a career-high ranking of 87 in early 2025—has already shown his potential with a series of strong results this season.
Highlights include qualifying for the Australian Open and reaching the second round in Melbourne, as well as an impressive quarterfinal run at the ATP 500 event in Rio de Janeiro and a final appearance at the Sao Paulo Challenger.
“I want to finish the season inside the Top 100,” Faria said. ” I’d also like to perform well in the Davis Cup with Portugal, as we haven’t had too many wins lately. Overall, I just want to keep improving step by step and raise my level.”
