Petra Marcinko is the new queen of the ATV Bancomat Tennis Open. In front of a packed crowd at Rome’s Circolo Antico Tiro a Volo, the 19-year-old Croatian defeated defending champion Oksana Selekhmeteva in a hard-fought final, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3. It marks Marcinko’s first career WTA 125 title and comes after two injury-hit seasons, signaling a powerful return to form. With the win, the former Junior World No. 1 climbs to a career-high WTA Ranking of No. 131.

There would be no repeat for Selekhmeteva, who had battled through to her first WTA 125 final but fell just short of defending her crown. Still, the Russian impressed with her composure and quality throughout the week, proving she belongs at this elevated level of competition.

The 15th edition of the tournament, upgraded this year to WTA 125 status, delivered on every front. Crowds packed the stands from start to finish, lending an electric atmosphere that elevated the occasion and confirmed the event’s place as a standout on the calendar. Organizers and players alike hailed the success of a tournament that continues to grow in stature.

“I’m so happy to win my first WTA 125 title here,” said Marcinko after her two-hour, 17-minute victory. “I connected with this club right away from my first visit. The people organizing this tournament have a passion that’s truly unique.”

It’s been a long road back for Marcinko, who suffered ankle injuries in each of the past two off-seasons. Now, healthy and consistent, she’s starting to find her rhythm again. “Staying fit is the priority, and so far, I’m doing well,” she said. “This week I won some matches by controlling the game, like against Zidansek, but I’m even happier about the final because I had to fight, find new solutions, and never give up. I can’t wait to keep going this season.”

Tournament president Giorgio Averni was full of pride as he reflected on a successful week. “We’re honored and proud of this final—it was the perfect conclusion to a week of hard work. The players put on a show and confirmed the high level of the ATV Bancomat Tennis Open.”

The WTA 125 upgrade, announced earlier this year, was fully embraced by the event’s organizers, who now set their sights on the future. “The players and their coaches praised the organization. We aim to keep improving—those who dream big achieve big things. Over the years, we’ve hosted many players who later became champions. We want to continue that tradition.”

Giuseppe Centro, the club’s sport advisor, echoed the sentiment. “We saw incredible athletes fighting for every point. Congratulations to Petra—she truly deserved this win. It was also a pleasure to welcome friends like Tathiana Garbin, Roberta Vinci, and Paolo Lorenzi, who all appreciated the effort behind this event.”

As the curtain falls on a memorable 15th edition, eyes now turn to next year – with bigger dreams and even higher expectations.