OLBIA/STARNBERG, October 18, 2025

The third edition of the Olbia Challenger will come to a close with a highly anticipated final between Pablo Carreno Busta and Luca Van Assche. At the Tennis Club Terranova, Van Assche opened the day with a comeback win over fellow Frenchman Hugo Grenier, 3–6, 6–1, 6–1. Later, Carreno Busta outlasted defending champion Martin Landaluce 6–2, 3–6, 6–3 in a gripping all-Spanish semifinal.

Pablo still got it

Former world No.10 @pablocarreno91 overcomes Landaluce 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 to reach the final in Olbia#ATPChallenger | @meftennisevents | @RFETenis pic.twitter.com/IbhrWvgZEY

— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) October 18, 2025

It was another hard-fought victory for Carreno Busta, who earned his place in his 16th career ATP Challenger Tour final. “It was a good match for you, maybe a bit less for me,” joked the former World No. 10 after the win. “I’m tired but happy. In the first and third sets I managed to put pressure on Martin, but it was tough, especially since I started the last set down a break.”

After two matches on Thursday and battles against Alejandro Tabilo and Landaluce, Carreno Busta now has the chance to lift his 15th Challenger trophy. “Am I tired? In the morning I can barely walk,” he laughed, “but then I get going and somehow manage to compete. I’ve never played against Luca, but that’s normal — he’s young, I’m old. I know he’s in great shape and deserves to be here. I expect another three-set match and I hope to win.”

With this victory, Carreno Busta is set to re-enter the Top 100, currently projected at World No. 97.

Van Assche fights back for a spot in the final

For Van Assche, it was a match of rising intensity and focus. The 20-year-old fought back from a set down to beat Grenier and secure his eighth Challenger final. “It was a really tough match against an opponent who’s been in great form,” he said. “Even though I started a bit poorly, I stayed focused from start to finish. I’m very happy with my performance, especially with the level I showed at the end.”

Van Assche, who returns to the ATP Top 200 with this run, will chase his fourth Challenger title and his first in more than two years. “The final is always the last battle of the week. I’m really happy to be here and to play in front of such a great crowd,” he added, thanking the fans for their strong support throughout the week at the Tennis Club Terranova.

SATURDAY RESULTS

Semifinals – Singles

Pablo Carreno Busta (6) def. Martin Landaluce (3) 6–2, 3–6, 6–3

Luca Van Assche def. Hugo Grenier 3–6, 6–1, 6–1