BRATISLAVA/STARNBERG, November 4, 2024

Roman Safiullin clinched the title of the Slovak Open 2024. In the final of the ATP Challenger Tour 125 hard-court event, held at the Peugeot Arena in Bratislava’s National Tennis Center, the top seed defeated Belgian qualifier Raphael Collignon 6-3, 6-4 in a 78-minute match,

Safullin earned his his sixth ATP Challenger Tour career title. He pocketed 125 ATP Ranking points, placing him at World No. 60 on Monday.

Safiullin made history as the first Russian singles champion in the 25-year legacy of the Bratislava Challenger. His performance throughout the tournament was impressive, as he did not drop a single set. His toughest match came in the first round against Slovak talent Milos Karol, who pushed Safiullin to two close tie-breaks.

In the final, Safiullin quickly took control, breaking Collignon’s serve in the fourth game to establish a 4-1 lead in the first set. Dominating the longer rallies, Safiullin pressured his opponent with powerful forehands that forced Collignon into defensive play. The second set was decided by a crucial break at 3-3, allowing Safiullin to close out the match.

Champion in style

Roman Safiullin prevails over Collignon 6-3, 6-4 to secure the title in Bratislava!#ATPChallenger pic.twitter.com/RFNGim1yUn

— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) November 3, 2024

“Thank you to my wife, coach, and physiotherapist, who helped me a lot. Thanks also to the organizers, who maintain a high standard for this tournament and attract big names. Many thanks to the fans for their support,” Safiullin said during the on-court ceremony.

“Congratulations to Roman, who played an excellent tournament. It was a particularly successful week for me. I had several three-hour, three-set matches, and I could feel it today,” said Collignon.