ORTISEI, November 12, 2016

For the first time in the history of the €64,000 ATP Challenger Val Gardena, there will be an all-Italian singles final, as Alessandro Giannessi will square off with Stefano Napolitano in Ortisei on Sunday.

Giannessi emerged vicotrious from the all-Italian-encounter with Lorenzo Sonego, rallying 3-6, 7-5, 6-4. The third seed from La Spezia sent down seven aces and capitalized on three of his five break point chances to prevail in two hours and nine minutes.

“It was really tough today, as Lorenzo is in really good shape at the moment,” Giannessi was happy afterwards. “I will get closer in order to meet my goal, cracking the Top 100. I am looking forward to a wonderful final.”

Napolitano Beats Krawietz

Stefano Napolitano (photo: Marco Wanker)

In the opening match, Napolitano defaeted in-form-German Kevin Krawietz 7-5, 6-4. The 21-year-old Biella native saved both break points he faced, converting two of his own to secure victory in one hour and 11 minutes.

“I served pretty well today and played in an aggressive way. I also went for some serve and volleys and I am very happy to reach another final,” told Napolitano, who advanced to his second title match at Challenger level this season after he had finished runner-up to Miljan Zekic in Todi.

“Of course I hope to win this time. I know Alessandro very well and it won’t be easy tomorrow.” Giannessi won the only previous meeting between the two at the ATP Challenger in Sczcecin earlier this year.