Verdasco Triumphs at the GNP Seguros Open After Thrilling Final
Spanish tennis veteran Fernando Verdasco clinched the 2022 GNP Seguros open title, overcoming a resilient Prajnesh Gunneswaran of India in a captivating three-set battle. The final, which unfolded over two hours and twelve minutes at the GNP Seguros Stadium, saw Verdasco secure his first ATP Challenger Tour victory and his eighth career title.
The opening set was a tightly contested affair, with both players showcasing strong serving.Verdasco boasted an impressive 95% success rate on his first serve, winning 18 out of 19 points. However, his second serve proved vulnerable, allowing Gunneswaran to capitalize and break serve in the ninth game. The Indian held his serve in the following game to claim the first set 6-4.
verdasco responded with determination in the second set, breaking Gunneswaran’s serve in the fourth game. This proved to be the turning point, as the Spaniard held his serve confidently throughout the set, converting one of his four break point opportunities to level the match at one set apiece.
The final set was a rollercoaster of emotions. Verdasco initially asserted his dominance, breaking Gunneswaran’s serve in the opening game and maintaining the advantage until the tenth game. Serving for the championship,Verdasco faced a sudden surge from Gunneswaran,who broke back to the delight of the crowd.
Gunneswaran held his serve to take a 6-5 lead and even threatened to close out the match, leading 30-0 in the following game.However, Verdasco displayed remarkable resilience, turning the tide and holding serve to force a tiebreaker.
In the decisive tiebreaker, Verdasco seized control, securing two mini-breaks to clinch the set 7-3 and secure a hard-fought victory.
this victory marks a significant milestone for Verdasco, who last tasted championship glory over three years ago. His performance throughout the tournament, particularly his resilience in the final, underscores his enduring talent and competitive spirit.
