VILLENA/STARNBERG, October 10, 2026
The Ferrero & Forty Challenger is set for an exciting final day, with Laslo Djere and Daniil Glinka preparing to battle for the singles title after two contrasting semi-final victories on Saturday.
Djere, a three-time champion on the ATP Tour, continued to demonstrate his outstanding form by reaching the final without losing a set throughout the hard-court tournament in Villena, Spain. The 31-year-old Serbian defeated local favourite Pedro Martinez Portero, the only remaining seeded player in the draw of the ATP Challenger 100 tournament, with a commanding performance. Despite the Spaniard’s hopes of delighting the home crowd, he struggled to find a way past Djere, who is determined to climb back towards the top of the ATP Rankings.
The former world No. 27 has considerable experience at the highest level, having recorded notable victories over top players such as Ben Shelton, Casper Ruud and Lorenzo Musetti. His consistent performances this week underline his ambition to return to the upper echelons of men’s tennis.
Idemooo, Laslo! 🇷🇸
Djere has his sights set on silverware as another title opportunity awaits tomorrow!
#ATPChallenger | @Ferreroacademy https://t.co/Wx2mDGzULi
— ATP Challenger (@ATPChallenger) October 10, 2026
Standing between Djere and the title is Estonia’s Daniil Glinka, who at 26 is enjoying the best period of his career. Having achieved a new career-high ranking, Glinka is now aiming to secure his second title at Challenger level.
His semi-final against Briton Jack Pinnington Jones proved to be a dramatic encounter. Glinka found himself on the brink of defeat as his opponent earned two match points. However, the Estonian saved both before edging a tense second-set tie-break 8-6. With the momentum firmly on his side, Glinka went on to dominate the deciding set and completed a remarkable comeback, winning 3-6, 7-6(6), 6-2.
The stage is now set for an intriguing final between Djere’s experience and consistency and Glinka’s confidence and determination. While the Serbian has yet to drop a set in the tournament, the Estonian has demonstrated his resilience under pressure, setting up an appealing clash for the title.
Kittay and Yuzuki Crowned Doubles Champions
The doubles title went to Benjamin Kittay and Takeru Yuzuki, who were crowned champions at the Ferrero & Forty Challenger. The trophy ceremony was attended by tournament figurehead Juan Carlos Ferrero and Grupo Forty CEO Hector del Barrio, highlighting the strong support behind the event.
