CAGLIARI/STARNBERG, May 3, 2026
The Sardegna Open finally has an Italian champion. After previous wins by Ugo Humbert and Mariano Navone, it was Matteo Arnaldi who lifted the trophy on the clay courts of the Tennis Club Cagliari, marking a significant milestone in his career.
The 25-year-old from Sanremo defeated former top-10 player Hubert Hurkacz of Poland 6-4, 6-4 in Sunday’s final, capturing his fifth ATP Challenger title – and the most prestigious one yet. It was a perfect ending to a week in which Arnaldi rediscovered his rhythm, confidence, and physical condition after struggling with a persistent foot injury.
In front of another sold-out crowd on Centre Court, Arnaldi showed resilience and tactical intelligence. He had to come from behind in both sets but responded immediately each time, neutralizing Hurkacz’s power with consistent returns and smart variation. The key to his victory was preventing the Pole from building momentum, breaking back instantly whenever he fell behind. When Arnaldi took the lead himself, Hurkacz was unable to respond.
The decisive moment came at 4-3 in the second set, when Hurkacz had his last real chance to turn the match around. Arnaldi held firm and then served out the match to love, sealing the victory with a forehand winner and a roar of relief.
The first Italian to win Cagliari 🇮🇹🙌@mattearnalds downs Hurkacz 6-4, 6-4#ATPChallenger | @federtennis pic.twitter.com/I6eL1qZHjM
— ATP Challenger (@ATPChallenger) May 3, 2026
“It was a special tournament,” said Arnaldi, who earned €43,635 in prize money as well as 175 ATP Ranking points. “I arrived with a lot of doubts because of my foot, but I felt better day by day. In the last two days, I had no pain at all. The final was definitely my best match of the week—I was very solid and really happy with my level against such an experienced and dangerous opponent. This title gives me a lot of confidence.”
The trophy ceremony was attended by regional officials and tournament representatives, who praised both the high level of play and the atmosphere throughout the week. Organizers highlighted the continued growth of the event and its importance for both players and fans.
In the doubles competition, Sander Gille of Belgium and Dutchman Sem Verbeek claimed the title, defeating Petr Nouza from the Czech Republic and Austrian Neil Oberleitner 4-6, 6-3, 10-4 in the final. It marked their fifth Challenger title together – all won within the past seven months.
