LUANCO, August 8, 2025
Richard Gasquet returned to Luanco in 2025 with one clear goal: redemption. After a disappointing semifinal exit in 2023, the Frenchman came back determined to leave his mark on the unique BDO Torneo Tenis Playa. On Thursday night, in front of nearly 2,400 fans packed along the sands of the La Ribera Beach, he did exactly that – claiming the title of the 38th edition with a 6-4, 6-4 victory over Austria’s Dominic Thiem.
The Olympic medalist from London 2012 and Davis Cup champion lifted the trophy in style, handed to him by the President of Asturias, Adrián Barbón, at the close of the 38th edition of a tournament unlike any other – played directly on the beach, where tides dictate the schedule and tradition meets tennis in the most spectacular setting.
The final was tightly contested from the start. Gasquet broke Thiem’s serve to love in the opening game and held onto that early advantage, though the Austrian had several chances to level the set. Gasquet, however, played with poise and precision, relying on his trademark one-handed backhand to fend off pressure and maintain his lead.
In the second set, Thiem stepped up his level and briefly led, much to the delight of the crowd eager to extend the evening’s tennis festivities. But Gasquet remained composed and struck at the perfect moment, breaking Thiem in the ninth game to go up 5-4. From there, the Frenchman delivered a flawless service game to close out the match in 76 minutes and secure his first Luanco title.
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“It’s a unique tournament. When you see the water on the court during the afternoon and having this fantastic atmosphere in the event, that’s amazing,” Gasquet told Tennis TourTalk on Wednesday. “I came here two years ago and many players asked me about my experience and it was great.
“This kind of tournament only works here in Luanco, in Spain. All people involved are very nice and treat the players in a very friendly way. It’s simply great to be back.”
