Andrey Rublev has returned to winning ways after claiming the ATP 250 Bastad title, defeating Luciano Darderi in straight sets.
The Russian star secured the crown with a 6-4, 6-3 victory, ending a lengthy wait for silverware and winning the tournament for the second time in his career.
Rublev, who came into the tournament as the top seed, delivered a consistent run on clay, overcoming several tough opponents on his way to the final. He had earlier defeated Alejandro Tabilo in three sets to book his place in the title match.
In the final, Rublev controlled proceedings with aggressive baseline play and solid serving, keeping Darderi under pressure throughout both sets. The Italian, who was the defending champion, struggled to match Rublev’s intensity as the Russian closed out the match in straight sets.
The victory marks Rublev’s first ATP title in over a year, ending a 17-month drought and providing a major boost to his season.
It also represents his second Bastad title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2023, further underlining his strong record at the Swedish clay-court event.
The win is expected to improve Rublev’s ranking and could signal a return to consistent form as he looks ahead to the hard-court swing later in the season.
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