Open Menorca ATP Challenger 100 raises the intensity as qualifiers make their mark
Four players coming through qualifying move into the next round on a demanding day marked by comebacks, strong performances from the favourites and high-level competition in Ciutadella.
The second edition of the Open Menorca ATP Challenger 100 completes its third full day of play at Club Tenis Ciutadella under shifting conditions, with morning winds giving way to calmer weather in the afternoon, setting the stage for an intense day across both singles and doubles draws.
Qualifiers show resilience and impact
The day highlights the strength of the qualifying draw, with four players progressing. Alex Martínez, seeded fifth in qualifying, sees off Tiago Pereira (7-6(3), 6-3) after edging a tight opening set and maintaining control behind a solid first serve (69%) and impressive break-point saving (83%).
Andrew Paulson also comes from behind to defeat Fabrizio Andaloro (3-6, 6-4, 6-4). After a strong start from the Italian, who produces 35 winners, the Czech turns the match around with greater efficiency on break points (6/12) and capitalises on his opponent’s 57 unforced errors.
A standout result comes from Sergio Callejón Hernando, who knocks out fourth seed Zdenek Kolar (5-7, 7-6(5), 6-1) after 2 hours and 32 minutes, raising his level on return—winning 59% of points on second serve—and converting 8 of 16 break chances.
Meanwhile, Dali Blanch, seventh seed in qualifying, dominates before Calvin Hemery retires (6-0), controlling the match with 74% of total points won, 83% success on first serve and overwhelming return numbers (90%).
Favourites deliver with authority
Third seed Roberto Carballés Baena progresses comfortably against Felipe Virgili (6-2, 6-1) in just over an hour, backed by an outstanding 94% first-serve rate and 77% of points won behind it, leaving no room for his opponent.
Fifth seed Justin Engel also moves on, overcoming Iñaki Montes-De la Torre (7-5, 1-6, 6-3) in a match full of momentum swings, ultimately decided by his greater consistency in the final set despite a near-even total points tally (96–97).
Other singles highlights
Wildcard Alejo Sánchez Quílez produces a comeback win over Sandro Kopp (7-5, 4-6, 2-6) after more than two hours, improving his serving numbers (72% first serves, 62% points won) and taking advantage of 55 unforced errors from the Austrian.
From the alternate list, Jonas Forejtek beats Yaroslav Demin (6-1, 7-6(2)) with a dominant start and a tighter second set settled in the tie-break, underpinned by an 85% first-serve rate and cleaner shot selection (28 errors to 45).
Doubles: fine margins decide
In doubles, third seeds Goldhoff and Jacq are eliminated by Butvilas/Pereira (7-5, 6-4), who impress with an 81% first-serve rate and zero double faults.
Second seeds Banthia/Donski edge through a tight super tie-break (12-10), converting all their break opportunities (3/3) and holding a slight edge in total points (51%).
Paulson/Vrbensky take control after a close opening set (7-6(6), 6-0), showing strong efficiency on break points (80%) and dominance in the second set.
In another evenly matched contest, Damas/Moro Cañas defeat Agamenone/Sánchez Izquierdo (7-6(4), 7-6(4)) thanks to their composure in the tie-breaks and a solid 77% first-serve rate.
Kolar/Martos Gornés also come from behind (3-6, 6-4, 10-2), dominating the super tie-break, while Molchanov/Watanabe secure a convincing win (6-3, 6-2) with 56% of total points won and better conversion on break points (6/12).
Tournament reaches key stage
Today, Friday 3 April, the round of 16 and quarter-finals in the singles draw, as well as the doubles quarter-finals, will take place in a decisive day that shapes the final stages of the tournament.
The Open Menorca ATP Challenger 100 continues to strengthen its position within the ATP Challenger Tour, supported by the Consell Insular de Menorca and AETIB, with a competitive level that reinforces its growing international profile.
