ITAJAI/STARNBERG, January 25, 2026
The Itajaí Open 2026 crowned its first-ever ATP Challenger 75 champion on Sunday, as Paraguay’s Adolfo Daniel Vallejo defeated Brazil’s Thiago Seyboth Wild 7-5, 4-6, 6-2 in a gripping final that lasted more than three hours and was played in front of packed stands at the Itamirim Clube de Campo. The clay-court tournament offered a total prize money of US$107,000 and awarded 75 ATP Ranking points to the champion.
A former junior world No. 1, the 21-year-old Vallejo confirmed his rise on the professional circuit by capturing his fourth Challenger career title and his third on Brazilian soil. Currently ranked No. 146 in the world and the top-ranked Paraguayan, Vallejo delivered a remarkably solid performance throughout the week. With the 75 points earned in Itajaí, he is expected to climb close to the Top 125 in the next ATP Rankings update, in addition to pocketing US$17,000 in prize money.
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The moment @danivallejo17 captured his 4th career ATP Challenger title#ATPChallenger | @InstitutoSports pic.twitter.com/uIEWFvYKYj
— ATP Challenger (@ATPChallenger) January 25, 2026
“It was a very tough match. He’s an experienced player and was playing at a very high level,” Vallejo said in fluent Portuguese. “I hope this strong start to the season continues for both of us. I’m very happy with this fourth title, and another one here in Brazil.”
Despite falling short in the final, Thiago Seyboth Wild enjoyed a consistent and encouraging week in Itajaí. The 2020 ATP Santiago champion was chasing his sixth ATP Challenger title and was contesting his first Challenger final on Brazilian soil. Seeded eighth, the Brazilian reached the final without dropping a set and showed signs of a return to form as he continues his comeback after a challenging 2025 season.
Ranked No. 217 at the start of the week, Seyboth Wild—who reached a career-high world No. 58 in 2024—is projected to move up to around No. 197 following his runner-up finish, along with earning US$9,600 in prize money.
In the final, Seyboth Wild suffered severe cramps early in the third set, which limited his movement. Even so, he remained on court, showed great determination and fought until the last point, earning a standing ovation from the crowd.
“I stayed on court and kept trying, mainly because of the fans who supported me all week,” Seyboth Wild said. “I’m sorry I couldn’t finish it the way I wanted, but that’s tennis. It was still an excellent week to start the season, I played well and felt great here in Itajaí.”
