KOBLENZ/STARNBERG, January 30, 2025
Florian Broska’s dream of a hometown triumph at the Koblenz Open came to an end on Thursday as the local favorite fell to France’s Matteo Martineau 6-4, 5-7, 6-4. Despite a spirited effort, the 27-year-old German was unable to keep his ATP Challenger Tour 100 campaign alive. The crowd at the EPG Arena showed their appreciation with warm applause, recognizing his impressive run from the qualifiers into the main draw, where he had showcased moments of high-level tennis.
Squire reaches first Koblenz quarterfinal
Henri Squire has advanced to his first-ever quarterfinal in Koblenz, marking a milestone in his third appearance at the tournament. The top-seeded German delivered a strong performance against Jordan’s Abdullah Shelbayh winning 6-3, 6-2 in one hour and seven minutes.
“I felt really, really good today and played very well,” said Squire. “Compared to previous years, I feel I’ve made progress mentally.” The 24-year-old Düsseldorf native will now face Italy’s Giulio Zeppieri, who was ranked as high as World No. 110 last year.
Nardi gaining momentum
Italian qualifier and World No. 83 Luca Nardi continues to find his rhythm. The 21-year-old dominated France’s Geoffrey Blancaneaux, sealing a commanding 6-2, 6-2 victory in just one hour and 26 minutes. Pleased with his performance, Nardi remarked: “I played well today, and my serve helped me in key moments.” Looking ahead, he remains focused on taking it “one match at a time” while aiming to “go as far as possible.”
The day’s action began with a dramatic battle on Center Court, where Ugo Blanchet outlasted Germany’s Max Rehberg in a marathon two-hour-50-minute encounter. Rehberg had the upper hand early, taking the opening set 6-2, but Blanchet raised his game in the following sets. With his powerful forehand proving decisive, the Frenchman stayed composed in key moments, saving a match point at 4-5 before sealing victory in the match tiebreak.
Swiss players continue to shine in Koblenz. Following Jakub Paul’s quarterfinal qualification on Wednesday, compatriot Mika Brunold followed his footsteps, cruising past Christoph Negritu in straight sets. Paul also progressed in the doubles competition, teaming up with the Netherlands’ David Pel to book a spot in the semifinals.
Mika Brunold in control
The 20-year-old books a spot in his second Challenger quarterfinal of the year after cruising past Negritu 6-2, 6-4 in Koblenz#ATPChallenger | @swiss_tennis pic.twitter.com/VA2tuCkd1x
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) January 30, 2025
Brunold now faces his toughest challenge yet as he takes on top favourite Luca Nardi. Confident ahead of the clash, the Basel native stated: “I believe I can compete at the same level as Luca, and I’m really looking forward to the match.”
Their quarterfinal showdown is scheduled as the third match after 12:00 p.m. local time on Center Court.