CORDOBA/STARNBERG, February 12, 2024

Italian qualifier Luciano Darderi capped his dream week at the sixth edition of the Cordoba Open by winning his maiden title on the ATP Tour. The 21-year-old defeated Argentine qualifier Facundo Bagnis 6-1, 6-4 in Sunday’s singles final.

Darderi, who was born in Argentina but an Italian national, fired eight aces, won 78 per cent of his first-service points and broke his rival’s serve four times to seal victory in one hour and 24 minutes.

Remember the name: @lucianodarderi_#CordobaOpen pic.twitter.com/WcKPbjONBA

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) February 11, 2024

“I feel really good, I can’t believe I have won my first ATP title,” Darderi said. “Last week I lost in the [second] round of a Challenger.

“To come through from qualifying to win the title with my family here, my dad and my girlfriend, it’s so special. And to make a big move in the rankings.”

Darderi earned $85,535 in prize money as well as 250 ATP Ranking points. He is set to surge 60 places to World No. 76.