Roman Safiullin Wins Chengdu Open

Safiullin Wins First ATP Title

Roman Safiullin won the Chengdu Open on Sunday, defeating Fabio Fognini in the final 6-4, 7-6 (9). It was Safiullin's first ATP title and the first time a Russian man had won an ATP tournament since Daniil Medvedev in 2021.

Safiullin's Road to Victory

Safiullin, ranked 101st in the world, upset top seed Denis Shapovalov in the quarterfinals and No. 2 seed Karen Khachanov in the semifinals to reach the final. In the final, he faced Fognini, a former top-10 player who is now ranked 54th in the world.

Safiullin won the first set 6-4, but Fognini fought back to win the second set in a tiebreak. In the third set, Safiullin broke Fognini's serve in the 11th game and served out the match.

Fognini's Disappointment

Fognini was disappointed to lose the final, but he praised Safiullin's performance. "He played very well today," Fognini said. "He was very aggressive and he served very well. I think he deserved to win."

Safiullin's Future

Safiullin's victory is a major breakthrough for the 25-year-old. He is now expected to move into the top 50 of the world rankings and he will be a contender at future ATP tournaments.

Safiullin said he was "overwhelmed" by his victory. "I'm so happy right now," he said. "I've been working so hard for this and it's finally paid off."