Federico Cina Triumphs at the MahaOpen ATP Challenger 75 Tennis Championship
Synopsis
In a thrilling showdown, sixth seed Federico Cina rallied from behind to defeat Felix Gill at the MahaOpen ATP Challenger 75, claiming his first title. With remarkable composure under pressure, Cina saved five match points before clinching victory in a dramatic tie-break.
Key Takeaways
Federico Cina won his first ATP Challenger title.
He saved five match points in a tense final.
The match lasted for two hours and 29 minutes.
Cina received USD 17,000 and 75 ATP ranking points for his victory.
The tournament was organized by MSLTA and supported by various government bodies.
Pune, March 1 (NationPress) The sixth seed, Federico Cina, showcased an impressive comeback under intense pressure, overcoming Britain’s Felix Gill with scores of 6-3, 5-7, 7-6(1) to claim victory at the MahaOpen ATP Challenger 75 Men’s Tennis Championship held at the Shiv Chhatrapati Kreeda Sankul in Mhalunge Balewadi Tennis Stadium this Sunday.
The 18-year-old Italian athlete celebrated his first ATP Challenger title in a thrilling match that saw him save five match points during the final set before taking control in the decisive tie-break. The exhilarating showdown unfolded over two hours and 29 minutes, keeping the enthusiastic crowd captivated.
Cina started strong, utilizing aggressive baseline tactics and dependable serving to secure the first set at 6-3. In response, Gill demonstrated resilience in the second set, seizing a vital break of serve to equalize the match.
The final set was filled with high-stakes rallies and unyielding exchanges, with neither competitor giving an inch. At 5-6, Cina faced imminent defeat as Gill had five match points. Remarkably, the teenager maintained his composure, fighting off each match point to push the match into a tie-break. Elevating his performance at this critical juncture, the Palermo native surged ahead to clinch the tie-break at 7-1, sealing his championship in style.
As a reward for his victory, Cina was awarded a trophy, USD 17,000 in prize money, and 75 ATP ranking points. Gill, as the runner-up, received USD 9,600 and 40 ranking points.
The tournament was organized by the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA) in collaboration with the Department of Sports and Youth Services, Government of Maharashtra, along with the PCMC, PMC, and PMDTA.
The award ceremony featured presentations by Prithviraj B.P., Additional Municipal Commissioner of Pune Municipal Corporation, alongside MSLTA President Prashant Sutar, Secretary Sunder Iyer, Joint Secretary Rajiv Desai, ATP Supervisor Rogerio Santos, and referee Leena Nageshkar.
Match Result:
Singles Final:
Federico Cina [6] (ITA) defeated Felix Gill (GBR) 6-3, 5-7, 7-6 (1).
Point of View
Especially under immense pressure, reflects a promising future in tennis. The event not only highlighted individual talent but also showcased the collaborative efforts of various organizations in promoting sports in Maharashtra.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the MahaOpen ATP Challenger 75 Championship?
Federico Cina, the sixth seed, won the MahaOpen ATP Challenger 75 Championship.
What was the score in the final match?
Federico Cina defeated Felix Gill with scores of 6-3, 5-7, 7-6(1).
How many match points did Cina save?
Cina saved five match points during the final set.
Where was the tournament held?
The tournament took place at the Shiv Chhatrapati Kreeda Sankul, Mhalunge Balewadi Tennis Stadium in Pune.
What were the prize rewards for the winner?
Cina received a trophy, USD 17,000 in prize money, and 75 ATP ranking points.
