SAO PAULO/STARNBERG, July 17, 2026
Former world No. 117 Felipe Meligeni Alves has confirmed his participation in next week’s Santos Brasil Tennis Classic World Tennis Tour M25 event, held at Esporte Clube Pinheiros in Sao Paulo. The 28-year-old Brazilian will continue his return to competition after spending nearly three months sidelined with an injury.
The Campinas native arrives with growing confidence after two encouraging performances on the ATP Challenger Tour, reaching the semifinals in Quito before competing in Bogota. For Meligeni, the priority has been rebuilding match fitness and regaining competitive rhythm.
“I’m still in the process of coming back. I had two good weeks in Quito and Bogota, but my main goal is to play as many matches as possible and regain tournament rhythm, which is exactly what I’ve been doing. I competed for ten consecutive days on the Challenger Tour, which was very positive. I’m improving physically and technically, and that’s what matters most.”
While pleased with his progress, the 27-year-old is keeping expectations realistic as he works toward returning to the level that previously earned him direct entry into the biggest tournaments on the ATP Tour.
“My expectations are positive because I’m playing well and feeling good physically. I know I’m capable of achieving strong results, but right now the most important thing is staying healthy. This is about getting back to my best level and rebuilding my physical condition so I can return to where I believe I belong. There’s no need to rush. I’m happy with the work we’re doing, and I want to focus on what I can control. I’m also excited to compete in Brazil again after such a long time, especially in São Paulo, and I hope to make the most of this opportunity.”
Meligeni will be one of the headline names in the main draw, which also features several Brazilian players, including Mateus Alves, Pedro Sakamoto, Joao Eduardo Schiessl, Paulo Andre Saraiva dos Santos, Nicolas Zanelatto, Jose Pereira, Nicolas Oliveira, and Lucas Andrade da Silva, who received a wildcard from the organizers.
The Santos Brasil Tennis Classic M25 takes place next week at Esporte Clube Pinheiros immediately following the conclusion of the World Tennis Tour W35 women’s tournament. The event offers US$30,000 in prize money, with the singles champion earning 25 ATP Ranking points.
