GENOVA/STARNBERG, September 7, 2025
Luciano Darderi etched his name into the history books of the AON Open Challenger – Memorial Giorgio Messina, clinching the ATP Challenger Tour 125 title in Genova, Italy with a total financial commitment of $208,400.
Playing in front of a packed crowd of 2,000 spectators at the Centrale Beppe Croce stadium in Valletta Cambiaso, Darderi delivered a dominant performance in Sunday’s singles final, defeating fellow Italian Andrea Pellegrino 6-1, 6-3. For Pellegrino, it marked a second runner-up finish at the prestigious event after his appearance in the 2022 final.
Pure domination @Lucianodarderi_ storms past Pellegrino 6-1, 6-3 to win the title in Genoa
#ATPChallenger | @federtennis pic.twitter.com/GW1OheVInr
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) September 7, 2025
“I really enjoyed this tournament,” said Darderi, who received his winner’s trophy from the Mayor of Genoa, Silvia Salis. “It was my first time playing here and it was truly a great experience: the courts were perfect, the level of play was very high, and the organization was excellent. Throughout the week it was such a pleasure to compete in front of so many fans. I want to thank them because their support really helped me.”
The 23-year-old, coached by his father Gino, also shared his ambitions after the victory: “From today I am inside the world’s Top 30. Step by step, I want to push into the Top 20 and earn a call-up for the Davis Cup. These are the goals I want to achieve.”
Darderi captured his fourth ATP Challenger Tour career title in addition to his four triumphs on the ATP Tour. The World No. 34 earned €25,740 in prize money as well as 125 ATP Ranking points.
“This year’s edition has been truly spectacular,” said Mauro Iguera, President of the Organizing Committee. “Having a gem like Darderi in a Challenger 125 is something you rarely see, but we managed to bring him here. Every evening the Beppe Croce Stadium was sold out, with more than 20,000 spectators over the week at Valletta Cambiaso, creating an atmosphere full of passion and energy. We are delighted, because this has been one of the most beautiful editions in recent years. When there is quality work and strong teamwork, Genoa always responds in an extraordinary way. And we want to thank the sponsors who stand by our side year after year.”
