TURIN/STARNBERG, May 18, 2025
There’s a reason why tennis fans around the world have a soft spot for Alexander Bublik. It’s not just his dazzling game — a rare mix of speed and flair — but also his personality, which brings energy and entertainment wherever he goes. And he did it again in style at the third edition of the Piemonte Open Intesa Sanpaolo, capturing the title with a dominant 6-3, 6-3 win over China’s Yunchaokete Bu in Saturday’s final.
Right after his victory on the clay courts of the Circolo della Stampa Sporting in Turin, Bublik charmed the crowd by opening his winner’s speech in perfect Italian: “Buongiorno signore e signori.” It was yet another reason for the local fans to adore him, following his most significant triumph ever on clay — at the prestigious ATP Challenger 175 event, which inspired him to play his best tennis throughout the week.
The 26-year-old Kazakh, a former World No. 17, played and won five high-level matches in six days. In the final, he was in control from the first ball, as his opponent struggled with back issues. Still, Bublik didn’t let up, showcasing his superior skills and trademark shot-making. Even when he lost his serve at 5-2 in the first set and again at 4-2 in the second, he immediately responded with breaks of his own — sealing the win with a second-serve ace.
Acing Turin
Alexander Bublik flies past Bu 6-3, 6-3 to claim a 7️⃣th career Challenger Tour title!#ATPChallenger pic.twitter.com/DJzUbrbsxX
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) May 18, 2025
“I came here expecting nothing less than the title,” Bublik said with trademark confidence after securing his seventh career title on the ATP Challenger Tour. “I believe I’m a better player than most of the field, and I managed to keep a high level throughout the week.” He also gave a special shoutout to his physiotherapist, Jeremy Kohler, saying, “Usually players thank their families first. I want to thank my physio, who was essential all week.”
The victory, he added, reinforces his belief in his potential across all surfaces. “This is just a small step toward where I want to be. I aim to raise my level further and compete against the top players in the biggest events.” One of those events is just around the corner: Roland Garros begins in a week. “This tournament was the perfect preparation. I can’t wait to see what Paris holds for me. My 2025 goal? To be healthy, competitive, and enjoy the game.”
Bublik pocketed €34,900 in prize money as well as 175 ATP Ranking points.
In the doubles final, Uruguay’s Ariel Behar and Belgium’s Joran Vliegen took the title with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Germany’s Hendrik Jebens and the Netherlands’ Robin Haase. They split a prize purse of €11,300 and earned 175 ATP Doubles Ranking points.
