PORTO/STARNBERG, July 21, 2025
Czech rising star Tereza Valentova made a triumphant return to Porto on Sunday, capturing the WTA 125 Eupago Porto Open title just six months after winning the ITF World Tennis Tour W75 event at the same venue, the Complexo Desportivo do Monte Aventino. The event marked the city’s first WTA-sanctioned tournament in 23 years and was organized by the Porto Tennis Association with support from the Portuguese Tennis Federation.
World No. 129 Valentova defeated Thailand’s Lanlana Tararudee (No. 187) in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2, after one hour and 46 minutes of high-quality tennis in front of a lively crowd on the central court. The match was particularly competitive in the first set, showcasing strong shot-making from both players.
The 17-year-old Prague native, a former Junior World No. 4, 2023 Roland-Garros girls’ champion, and 2022 US Open junior finalist, was rock solid under pressure. Despite trailing 1-4, 15-40 early on, Valentova turned the match around and saved 9 of 10 break points she faced, neutralizing her opponent’s aggressive game with remarkable poise.
This victory marks Valentova’s fourth title of the season, her second WTA 125 crown after winning in Grado, Italy on clay, and the ninth title overall in her fast-growing professional résumé. With this result, she is projected to climb to a career-high ranking of No. 106, moving ever closer to the Top 100.
Chegou, viu e venceu e vamos ouvir falar bastante dela. Das jogadoras(es) que mais tenho certeza dos que vi ao vivo.
Tereza Valentova triunfa no WTA 125 do Porto ao bater Lanlana Tararudee por 6-4 e 6-2. Vence torneio sem perder sets. Muito melhor que as restantes. pic.twitter.com/PbfptAn6Kf
— Steve Grácio (@stevefgracio) July 20, 2025
Speaking after the trophy ceremony, a beaming Valentova shared her affection for the Portuguese city. “Maybe I’ll come back next year — I really want to,” she said, smiling. “This title is special because I’ve played here twice and won both times. I stayed in the same hotel, played at the same club, and saw the same people. Maybe that’s why Porto is such a magical place for me.”
“I never forgot the title I won here in January, and I won’t forget this one either. Every title means something, and yes — don’t worry — I won’t forget Porto,” she concluded before rushing to catch her flight.
The return of the Eupago Porto Open to the WTA calendar kicked off the 27th edition of the tournament, which spans three weeks. Action continues with an ITF World Tennis Tour M25 men’s event already underway, featuring 28 Portuguese players in the qualifying draw, followed by a Challenger-level tournament next weekend.
