GUYAQUIL/STARNBERG, July 21, 2025

In front of a packed and electrified stadium, Argentine star Juan Martin Del Potro emerged victorious against Ecuador’s Nicolas Lapentti in a highly anticipated exhibition match dubbed the “Duel of Titans”. The event, held Saturday night at the Guayaquil Tenis Club (Anexo), was part of the Guayaquil Capital Americana del Deporte 2026 presented by American Express Banco Guayaquil.

Del Potro claimed the win in straight sets, 7-6(1), 6-3, showing glimpses of the world-class form that once took him to No. 3 in the ATP Rankings. Lapentti, a hometown favorite, stood toe-to-toe with the Argentine through the early stages but couldn’t keep pace after Del Potro secured a crucial break midway through the second set.

The atmosphere was electric, with 2,000 spectators filling the venue and splitting their support between the two legends. Despite being the visiting player, Del Potro’s charm and charisma quickly won over the Ecuadorian crowd.

Among the fans were two Roland Garros champions: Brazil’s Gustavo “Guga” Kuerten (1997, 2000, 2001) and Ecuador’s own Andres Gomez (1990). Their presence was met with thunderous applause when they were introduced to the crowd.

One of the most striking features of the evening was its multi-generational appeal. Older fans reminisced about Gomez’s golden era, others celebrated the careers of Kuerten and Lapentti, and the youngest in attendance witnessed a rare appearance by Del Potro, who officially retired last year.

Following the final point, when Lapentti’s shot hit the net, a heartfelt on-court ceremony took place. Joining Del Potro, Lapentti, Kuerten, and Gomez on court were Tatiana Coronel, vice mayor of Guayaquil; Carlos Moran, municipal sports director; and Guillermo Lasso Alcivar, executive president of Banco Guayaquil.

“It’s an honor to have shared this court, here at home, at the Guayaquil Tennis Club, with you—big hug, champ,” Lapentti told Del Potro, who responded with emotion.

“It was just a few days, but they were intense and truly special. I don’t want to leave, because Ecuadorian people are so warm and kind to me. I feel at home here, and I thank you all from the bottom of my heart,” Del Potro said.

Kuerten also shared a touching moment: “Nico called me and said, ‘Are you coming?’ I said, ‘Of course!’ ‘But Guga, how much?’ ‘Nothing,’ I told him. I came to be with you, to enjoy our friendship. That’s how we South Americans find the strength to overcome bigger challenges.”

G0mez added: “I couldn’t be happier. This is also my home. I’m proud to be older because I helped open a path for you all. Today, you are the example of what we want tennis to be—for our countries, our region, and the sport we all love.”