HAMBURG, October 22, 2023
Illya Marchenko is the champion of the 2023 Hamburg Ladies & Gents Cup. The 36-year-old Ukrainian won the final of the €36,000 ATP Challenger hard-court tournament on Sunday afternoon, beating top seed Dennis Novak of Austria 6-2, 6-3.
Marchenko saved all six break points he faced and broke his opponent’s serve four times to secure victory in one hour and 15 minutes.
Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an
“It seems that Dennis doesn’t like to play against me due to my game style and shots. I played really well today. It was almost a perfect match for me, for sure the best of this week. He had some chances on my serve during the first set but I came with a big serve and a nearly perfect rally and I am very happy with my game,” said Marchenko, who also triumphed in Salinas, Ecuador in July.
“It’s my first year when I managed to win two singles titles in one season. At the age of 36 that’s quite surprising to be honest, but it feels great. With this win I will probably be able to enter the qualifying of the Australian Open, having the chance to finish the season within the Top 150. To get all of this at the end of my career. That’s good.”
The World No. 248, who lives in Slovakia, enjoyed his stay in Hamburg-Horn.
“It was a very nice tournament. Everything on site was fine. Transportation was always on time, which is important for us. The conditions suit my game. The support from the spectators was nice. I was really happy to be here.”
However, there was no time for an extensive celebration for Marchenko. The fast-paced life on the tour continues for him.
“I am flying out later today. Tomorrow I will go to Ortisei, but there will be some kind of celebration in between for sure. Winning my 10th Challenger title is a great moment in my career.”
Marchenko earned €4,910 in prize money as well as 50 ATP Ranking points.
