OLBIA/STARNBERG, October 18, 2026
Damir Dzumhur became the fourth different champion in the history of the Olbia Challenger after defeating top seed Jacob Fearnley 7-6(4), 6-3 in Sunday’s final. The Bosnian triumphed at the ATP Challenger 125 event organised by MEF Tennis Events in collaboration with Tennis Club Terranova, securing the 15th Challenger title of his career.
Starting the tournament as the second seed, Dzumhur gradually raised his level throughout the week, overcoming the competition to lift the trophy in front of a packed Cloto Arena. From Monday, the former world No. 23 will climb to No. 83 in the ATP Rankings, while Fearnley will move up to No. 87.
It was a week that began with difficulties but ended with the trophy in his hands. Dzumhur’s emotional reaction after securing the final point reflected just how much the 15th Challenger title of his career meant to him. It also marked his 30th professional title overall, including three on the main ATP Tour.
“It was an incredible week, and I didn’t expect to win the tournament. In the second round, I was close to being eliminated, but after getting through that match, I immediately realised that I could change my fortunes here in Olbia. I rebuilt my confidence match by match, and winning the title means a lot to me,” said the former world No. 23, who defeated Fearnley 7-6(4), 6-3 in the final.
What it means 🦁
Damir Dzumhur claims his first title since 2024 with a 7-6(4), 6-3 victory over Fearnley in Olbia
#ATPChallenger | @meftennisevents https://t.co/xyLLQ6PSoQ
— ATP Challenger (@ATPChallenger) October 18, 2026
His triumph in Sardinia guarantees Dzumhur a place inside the top 100 at least until the end of the season. The valuable ranking points will also help him secure a place in the main draw of the Australian Open 2027.
“I am satisfied with my year. I will finish the season inside the top 100, achieving what was my personal goal. However, my season is not over yet. I will play the ATP 250 in Brussels, the ATP 500 in Vienna and the Paris Masters 1000, but I will be able to approach those tournaments with a clear mind.”
“What more could I ask for from my career? Honestly, I am very happy with what I have achieved and grateful to have had the opportunity to do it. I have nothing to complain about. I have always given my best to fulfil my dreams, and I am proud of myself. I just hope I can continue playing for another two or three years without injuries.”
From the opening rounds onwards, the second seed had made no secret of his affection for the Sardinian Challenger. His connection with the tournament only grew stronger after Sunday’s triumph.
“I really like the conditions here, but I also love the city and the people. The organisation is fantastic. Everyone works hard to maintain a very high standard, and I had everything I needed. On top of that, the crowd was exceptional. Throughout the tournament, I felt the support of the people, and I tried to reward them with spectacular tennis. Their support helped me a lot.”
MEF Tennis Events Reviews a Successful 2026 Season
The Olbia Challenger 125 marked the sixth tournament organised by MEF Tennis Events during 2026, making it an appropriate moment to reflect on another busy season.
“It was a fantastic week, with summer-like weather throughout,” said MEF Tennis Events managing director Marcello Marchesini. “I can say that there were no problems apart from the usual logistical matters, and we are therefore very happy. We are a little disappointed for Luca Nardi, who finished the tournament with a muscular problem that we hope he will recover from soon. At the same time, we witnessed a high-quality final between two players who are also very familiar with the main tour.”
MEF Tennis Events continues to strengthen its position as one of the leading organisers of professional tennis tournaments in Italy and Europe.
“After several consecutive years, a certain amount of fatigue inevitably begins to show. Just a few months ago, some members of ATP management visited us in Todi and confirmed that we are the company that has organised the highest number of Challenger tournaments since 2016. That means a lot to us, but it also makes us realise how intensively we work and how many weeks each year we dedicate to these events.”
Regarding the 2027 calendar, Marchesini indicated that several established tournaments are likely to return.
“The events in Perugia, Parma (WTA 125), Todi and Olbia are all moving towards confirmation. We are also evaluating the situation in Tenerife, where the two tournaments originally scheduled for February could be moved to a later stage of the season.”
The benefits of hosting international tournaments are also increasingly visible for the local clubs involved. Tennis Club Terranova, like the other venues that have welcomed MEF Tennis Events competitions in recent seasons, continues to benefit from the exposure and development opportunities.
“I believe that all clubs and their management teams recognise the benefits they receive from hosting a tournament of this level. I know that in Olbia, the numbers at the tennis school and the membership have increased. Furthermore, these events provide an incentive for local administrations, which in most cases directly own the facilities.”
“Cooperation between the public and private sectors is fundamental. Personally, I sense considerable interest from municipalities and regional authorities in tennis events. Being able to renew these partnerships is a pleasure, and MEF Tennis Events is always willing not only to continue them but also to improve them wherever necessary,” Marchesini concluded.
