VILLA MARIA/STARNBERG, October 13, 2024
Argentine Camilo Ugo Carabelli and Dutchman Jesper De Jong will face off in Sunday’s title match of the AAT Challenger Santander Edicion Villa Maria.
Saturday’s semi-final action kicked off with a packed stadium for the all-Argentine affair between Ugo Carabelli and Juan Manuel Cerundolo, where the former claimed a solid victory, 6-4, 6-2.
VAMOS ✊@camilougo makes the final in Villa Maria, defeating Cerundolo 6-4, 6-2#ATPChallenger | @AATenis pic.twitter.com/pwfXjRE3YD
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) October 12, 2024
“I’m really happy to be in the final. I didn’t expect it much when the week started, but this club always brings me good energy and vibes. I’ve always done well here,” said the 25-year-old from Buenos Aires.
“I haven’t been feeling great. I’ve had a lot of problems off the court, and things that obviously show on the court. This is a sport where you need to be strong in every aspect, and I wasn’t. But I managed to push through and fortunately have a great tournament,” Ugo Carabelli added.
Regarding his support, he mentioned that he relies on his family, friends, and girlfriend. “Breaking out of routine is helpful; luckily, having tournaments close to home is a big plus. It’s great to be well accompanied. I’m working with psychologists. I’m sure this happens to everyone.”
The second match of the day saw Jesper De Jong advance. The 24-year-old Dutchman defeated Roman Andres Burruchaga 6-2, 6-3, showcasing a high level of play on the main court of the Sport Social Club in Villa Maria.
Facing break points? Pressure? What pressure?
Jesper De Jong with OUTRAGEOUS back to-back volley winners as he gets the better of Burruchaga 6-2, 6-3 and will face Ugo Carabelli for the #ATPChallenger | @AATenis pic.twitter.com/2mxmFvjNWV
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) October 12, 2024
“It’s perfect,” he told his coach after securing his spot in his second ATP Challenger Tour final in Argentina, following his runner-up finish at the Challenger in Tigre in January 2023.
“I’ll be in the top 100 if I win tomorrow. I’ve known that for a while. It’s going to be fun. I’ll try to play like I did today. The final is a different match, and you never know, but I’m playing great tennis, so I’m confident,” said De Jong after his victory.
