ROVERETO/STARNBERG, November 24, 2024
Luca Nardi has clinched the title of the Trofeo Perrel-Faip in Rovereto, Italy. The No. 2 seed of the ATP Challenger Tour 100 hard-court event defeated fellow Italian and wild card entry Francesco Maestrelli 6-1, 6-3 in Sunday’s singles final.
Nardi broke Maestrelli’s serve early in both sets and showcased his varied playing style, which left his opponent struggling to find rhythm. Maestrelli, fatigued after grueling matches earlier in the week, made several errors, including crucial double faults, which handed Nardi the advantage. Despite a late effort from Maestrelli, reducing the deficit to 5-3 in the second set, Nardi sealed the victory with a sharp forehand passing shot.
LUCA LUCA LUCA ️@Luca___Nardi grabs the title in Rovereto after a straight sets win over Maestrelli 6-1, 6-3! #ATPChallenger pic.twitter.com/aHkFV9QVyl
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) November 24, 2024
“I played a solid match and knew how to handle Francesco’s game. He seemed a bit tired after a tough week, but I managed to stay focused and finish strong. Overall, I’m pleased with my game,” said Nardi.
“Francesco and I talk almost every day about everything except tennis. He’s a true friend. We’ve spent a lot of time together on and off the court. I knew he wasn’t coming from the best period, and seeing him in the final made me happy. I also knew this match was crucial for him to secure entry to the Australian Open qualifiers. I hope he can earn the points he needs at the Maia Challenger next week.”
The 21-year-old Pesaro native captures his seventh ATP Challenger Tour career title, his second of the season following his triumph on home soil in Naples. Nardi took away from Northern Italy €16,550 in prize money as well as 100 ATP Ranking points.
The 19th edition of the Trofeo Perrel-Faip concluded with Nardi’s victory, continuing the tournament’s tradition of successful champions, including Matteo Berrettini, Jannik Sinner, Holger Rune, and Jack Draper in recent years.
