Argentine Earns Breakthrough Victory After Marathon Day

Tomás Martín Etcheverry (ranked 51st) has captured his first career ATP title at the Rio Open presented by Claro, defeating Alejandro Tabilo (ranked 68th) of Chile in a thrilling final. The match concluded with a score of 3-6, 7-6 (3), and 6-4.

The victory was particularly remarkable given the circumstances. Etcheverry was forced to play two matches on Sunday, February 23, 2026, due to rain delays, totaling nearly seven hours of play on clay.

A Test of Endurance and Will

Etcheverry’s day began with a grueling semifinal match against Vit Kopriva, which he won 4-6, 7-6[2], 7-6[4] after 3 hours and 43 minutes. He then faced Tabilo in the final just hours later.

“Best day of my life,”

Etcheverry

Despite appearing exhausted at times, Etcheverry demonstrated incredible resilience, battling back from a set down and a break in the second set against Tabilo.

Climbing the Ranks of Argentine Tennis History

This win marks the 239th Argentine tennis trophy during the Open Era. Argentina boasts a rich tennis history, led by Guillermo Vilas with 62 titles. José Luis ‘Batata’ Clerc holds the second position with 25 titles, followed by Juan Martin Del Potro with 22.

• Guillermo Vilas: 62 titles
• José Luis Clerc: 25 titles
• Juan Martin Del Potro: 22 titles
• Martín Jaite: 12 titles
• David Nalbandian: 11 titles

Other notable Argentine champions include Guillermo Pérez Roldan, Guillermo Coria, and Juan Mónaco (9 titles each), Gaston Gaudio (8 titles), and Sebastián Báez (7 titles).

Match Details and Comeback

Tabilo took the first set 3-6, and secured an early break in the second. However, Etcheverry fought back, winning the tiebreak 7-3. He then closed out the match with a 6-4 victory in the deciding set.

FAQ

• Who won the Rio Open in 2026? Tomás Martín Etcheverry.
• Who did Etcheverry defeat in the final? Alejandro Tabilo.
• How many matches did Etcheverry play on the final day? Two – a semifinal and the final.