LISBON/STARNBERG, October 18, 2026

Clara Burel was crowned champion of the sixth and most prestigious women’s edition of the Lisboa Belem Open, claiming the third WTA 125 title of her career at the CIF in Lisbon.

In the final, Burel (world No. 214) defeated Spain’s Leyre Romero Gormaz (No. 139) 6-4, 6-3 to finally celebrate a title in Portugal, five and a half years after being forced to withdraw before the final of the Oeiras Ladies Open due to injuries to both ankles.

Romero Gormaz made the first breakthrough, securing an early break to take a 2-0 lead. However, Burel, a former top-50 player whose career has been significantly affected by injuries, responded immediately. Her most serious setback was a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in her right knee, which kept her away from the tour for 13 months.

From that point onwards, the 25-year-old Frenchwoman took control of the contest. After 86 minutes, she sealed her fifth victory of the week, having won all five matches in straight sets.

“It’s an incredible feeling, I am very happy. I played very well this week and I am pleased with how everything went. I fought for every ball and every point, and it was worth it. This means a lot to me because of my injury. I was out for a year, so having two titles now means a lot. I hope to be even stronger next year and show my best tennis,” Burel said.

Born in Rennes, Burel collected the eighth singles title of her career and her third at WTA 125 level, following previous triumphs in Angers in 2023 and Valencia earlier this season. Valencia was also her last tournament before arriving in Lisbon. Her latest success will bring a significant boost in the rankings, with the Frenchwoman expected to climb almost 60 places to just outside the top 150.