PAU/STARNBERG, February 23, 2025

In front of nearly 3,200 spectators at the Palais des Sports, Raphael Collignon claimed the title of the seventh edition of the Terega Open Pau-Pyrenees, defeating German qualifier Patrick Zahraj 6-2, 6-4. The 23-year-old Belgian will break into the Top 100 for the first time in his career on Monday.

Collignon needed just one hour and 32 minutes to overcome Zahraj, who was playing in his first-ever final at ATP Challenger Tour level. The Belgian immediately broke his opponent’s serve, capitalizing on a floating volley from the German, and quickly consolidated his lead. A second break soon followed as Zahraj struggled with his serve and tactical choices, allowing Collignon to take the first set comfortably.

Zahraj, ranked World No. 445, started the second set more positively, securing an early break to lead 4-2. However, Collignon responded swiftly, breaking back and dominating the remainder of the match to seal the victory with confidence.

What it means

Raphael Collignon captures his third career Challenger title with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Zahraj in Pau!#ATPChallenger | @TeregaOpen pic.twitter.com/cP2mgD8yVQ

— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) February 23, 2025

The title at the Terega Open in Pau comes as a major relief for Collignon, who had been on a five-match losing streak before arriving at the tournament. He pocketed €25,740 in prize money as well as 125 ATP Ranking points.

Despite the loss, Patrick Zahraj also made a strong impression, showing emotion during the trophy ceremony and securing a significant ranking jump, bringing him closer to the Top 300.