Escoffier Claims Maiden Challenger Title At El Espinar

(photos: Alberto Simón/Pedro Luis Merino)

SEGOVIA/STARNBERG, July 28, 2024

Frenchman Antoine Escoffier has been crowned champion of the XXXVIII Open Castilla y León Villa de El Espinar after defeating Spanish qualifier Alex Martinez 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 in the final held this Sunday at the Pedro Muñoz Municipal Sports Complex in El Espinar. This marks Escoffier’s first ATP Challenger Tour title.

Top seed Escoffier came into the hard-court tournament having lost the 2023 final to another Spaniard, Pablo Llamas Ruiz. The 32-year-old avenged that loss 12 months later by winning the 38th edition of the event. Escoffier, who finished runner-up at last week’s Open Ciudad de Pozoblanco in Cordoba, competed in his third Challenger final. The World No. 195 struck six aces and broke Martinez’s serve four times to secure victory in two hours and 19 minutes.

Following 15 triumphs on the ITF World Tennis Tour, Escoffier lifted his maiden Challenger trophy and earned € 5,080 in prize money as well as 50 ATP Ranking points.

The ATP Challenger Tour event was held in El Espinar, a picturesque town in the province of Segovia, Spain, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama, El Espinar offers stunning landscapes, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town’s charming streets, historic architecture, and welcoming atmosphere make it a delightful destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure in the heart of Spain.