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Mérida masters Maestrelli, wins Tenerife Challenger 1

BY FLORIAN HEER

Daniel Mérida crowned a memorable week at the Tenerife Challenger 1 by lifting the trophy in a dream final between the tournament’s top two seeds. The 21-year-old Spaniard defeated No. 1 seed Francesco Maestrelli of Italy 6-2, 6-4 to claim the title, bringing the curtain down on a thrilling week of tennis on the courts of the Abama Tennis Academy. With high-quality matches in sunny conditions, strong crowds and a showdown that lived up to expectations, the final day delivered a fitting conclusion to the first of two ATP Challenger 75 events on the largest of the Canary Islands.

Mérida advanced to the championship match with victories over Briton Toby Samuel, Spanish qualifier Alejo Sánchez Quílez, eighth seed Alejandro Moro Cañas of Spain, and third-seeded Italian Stefano Travaglia. 

In his first meeting with Maestrelli, Mérida didn’t face a break point and capitalized on three of his own five break-point chances to secure victory in one hour and 17 minutes.

“I’m extremely happy with how I played all week. In general, I’ve always felt I could play well in Tenerife and I’m always happy to compete on this beautiful island,” Mérida said.

“Winning my first Challenger last year gave me a lot of confidence. Now I step on court against players like Travaglia and Maestrelli knowing and believing I can win.”

By winning his second ATP Challenger Tour career title, his second on home soil after Pozoblanco in Andalusia last year, Mérida earned €15,510 in prize money as well as 75 ATP Ranking points.

With his new career-high ranking of world No. 152, this result opens up new perspectives. “I’d love to play for Spain in the Davis Cup one day, and it would also be a dream to compete at the Madrid Masters,” Mérida stated. “It’s the tournament I used to attend as a kid. I hope to get in with my ranking, but I wouldn’t mind a wild card either.”

After this week, the Madrid native will have just one day of rest before returning for the Tenerife Challenger 2, where he will face an immediate test in the first round against an in-form Lorenzo Giustino.

Shelbayh/Vega Hernandez triumph in doubles

On Saturday, Abdullah Shelbayh of Jordan and Spaniard David Vega Hernandez captured the doubles title. They defeated the all-Spanish combination of Pedro Llamas Ruiz and Benjamin Winter Lopez 6-2, 6-4 in the 68-minutes final. 

By winning their first team title, Shelbayh and Vega Hernandez split €4,540 in prize money and collected 75 ATP Doubles Ranking points.

Brendan Breen: ‘The Tournament Keeps Growing’

“Every year the numbers for the tournament grow, and I’m proud of how many people were in the stands for this wonderful final between Mérida and Maestrelli,” said Brendan Breen, Director of the Abama Golf and Tennis Academy. 

“Tenerife Tourism has supported the tournament for many years, and it’s great to see a return on their investment, with tennis tourism growing strongly. More and more visitors are coming to the island specifically for the event. And next week we’ll have two champions like Fabio Fognini and Flavia Pennetta here at the Abama Tennis Academy. It will be a fantastic occasion, especially coming just days after Alcaraz spoke about Tenerife as his favorite destination.”

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FROM DJOKOVIC TO TENERIFE: MAESTRELLI SEEDED TOP

MAIN DRAW DRAWN: SIX ITALIANS AT THE START
WILD CARD FOR JACOPO VASAMÌ

Tenerife, February 1, 2026 – The warm Tenerife sun kissed the courts of the Abama Tennis Academy on the opening day of Tenerife Challenger 1. The Canary Islands are once again the beating heart of the ATP Challenger circuit with two hard-court events scheduled from February 1 to 15. After the first matches of the second round draw, tomorrow the qualifying rounds will be completed and the main draw matches will begin. It will immediately be a day dominated by Italians: Jacopo Berrettini will face Abdullah Shelbayh, while Gabriele Piraino will take on Alibek Kachmazov. However, they won’t be the only Italians in a deep and competitive draw, which once again confirms the event organized by MEF Tennis Events as one of the most interesting of this early 2026 season. Meanwhile, among the many Italians determined to make their mark, Francesco Maestrelli and Jacopo Vasamì are having a training day, both working on the final details before their debuts scheduled for Tuesday, February 3rd.

Maestrelli returns to the court after the Australian Open – After a memorable Australian Open, including his first career Major qualification, a debut victory against Atmane, and a prestigious clash on Rod Laver Arena against Djokovic, Francesco Maestrelli enters the Tenerife Challenger 1 as the top seed. The Pisan returns to the island after several appearances in recent seasons and will debut against Frenchman Mathys Erhard, with the prospect of a possible second round match against the winner of the Shelbayh-Berrettini match. In a draw featuring six Italians, the third and fourth seeds are Stefano Travaglia and Lorenzo Giustino. The former, placed in the bottom half, will make his debut against Sergey Fomin; the latter, placed in the top half, will face a qualifier. All eyes are also on eighteen-year-old Jacopo Vasamì, who begins the year ranked world number 667 after showing some promising performances in his 2025 transition to professional tennis. In his first tournament under new coach Filippo Baldi, he received a wild card from the organizers and will face a qualifier making his debut: on paper, a favorable opportunity to gain pace and confidence. Gabriele Piraino completes the Italian lineup, facing Kachmazov tomorrow. Defending the home colors will be a battle-ready Spanish force: Daniel Merida, Pablo Llamas Ruiz, and Alejandro Moro Cañas, ranked second, sixth, and eighth, respectively, will debut against Toby Samuel, Benjamin Willwerth, and a qualifier. In addition to these three players, the home crowd will also be able to cheer on Miguel Damas, Sergio Callejon Hernando, Pol Martin Tiffon, Javier Barranco Cosano, and Daniel Rincon.

Mmoh makes his debut in Tenerife – After an exciting start to 2026, Michael Mmoh has landed in Tenerife. The former ATP No. 81, currently ranked No. 228, was thrilled by the island. “It’s my first time here, and honestly, I’m shocked,” said the American, born in 1998. “I’d heard good things about this place and the tournament, but I was also amazed by the view from the Abama Tennis Academy. I think it’s a wonderful place to play tennis.” After several injuries that affected his performance, Mmoh began the season at the ATP 250 in Hong Kong, where he defeated former ATP No. 19 Alejandro Tabilo and current world No. 18 Karen Khachanov. The next tournament was supposed to be the Australian Open, where he was expected to qualify, but he preferred to recover 100% so as not to jeopardize the rest of the year: “Suffering injuries is part of being a professional tennis player, and I have to accept the ups and downs. My goal? I’m happy to have started well and I believe I have the qualities to return to the Top 100; I’ve set myself this goal. However, I have to think one thing at a time; to begin, I want to play a whole year without any problems.” After his very first training sessions in Tenerife, Mmoh also expressed his opinion on the playing conditions in the Canary Islands: “The courts seem quite slow to me, they suit my hitting style and my physicality very well. For this reason, I think all the conditions are there to do well.” Mmoh’s debut won’t be the easiest: on the other side of the net, he faces Mikhail Kukushkin, already champion of the tournament in 2024.

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A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE FOR TENNIS SCHOOLS

The Tenerife Challenger opens its doors to tennis schools in the Canary Islands – The dream of many children who play sports is to meet the athletes who have made that dream a reality. Young tennis enthusiasts from the Canary Islands will have the opportunity to spend a day in close contact with the professional tennis players participating in the ATP Challenger Tour tournaments taking place in Guía de Isora, Tenerife. The tournament organizers, along with the Tenerife Tennis Federation and the Canary Islands Tennis Federation, will involve the Canary Islands’ tennis schools in KIDS DAY!

As in previous years, IODA Tenerife, an association that promotes values ​​such as inclusion, leisure, and adapted sports, will be present. Children will have the opportunity to test their wheelchair tennis skills by playing with IODA athletes.

Instructors and representatives from tennis clubs can register their tennis school for one or more days, choosing a day of their choice (minimum 10 people).

Registration is done by sending an email to contact@meftennisevents.com or by contacting Elena Marchesini at +39 3925250271.

The KIDS DAY program varies depending on the day and includes:
– PRACTICE SESSION WITH PLAYERS FROM THE TENERIFE CHALLENGER AND WHEELCHAIR TENNIS: Participating tennis schools will have the opportunity to practice with the ATP Challenger tournament champions and IODA athletes (30 minutes).
– SOUVENIR PHOTO: During and at the end of the practice session, the children will have their picture taken with the players. The photos will be sent via a link to their assigned teacher.

– AUTOGRAPH SESSION: Each child will receive a ball autographed by one of the tournament players.

– FREE ADMISSION: Each participating child will receive a free pass for the entire day. Each participant may bring two guests who will have free access all day.

* HOW TO REGISTER: To register, please send an email to contact@meftennisevents.com or contact Elena Marchesini at +39 3925250271, indicating your preferred date, time slot, and number of children/teenagers (minimum 10 people). We will contact you to confirm your availability.

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ENTRY LIST TENERIFE CHALLENGER

TOP PROFESSIONAL TENNIS RETURNS TO THE ISLAND WITH THE TENERIFE CHALLENGERS IN FEBRUARY

Young Spanish talent Rafa Jodar is one of the players who will take part in the tournaments, which will give several promising Canary Island tennis players the opportunity to compete.

Tenerife, January 15, 2026 – Tenerife will once again become a benchmark for top international tennis. The island will host two ATP Challenger 75 events for two weeks, from February 1 to 15, on the hard courts of the Abama Tennis Academy, confirming the island as one of the most exciting stops on the calendar. Behind the organization of an event appreciated by both locals and the many tourists who choose Tenerife for their holidays is, once again, MEF Tennis Events, proud to renew its commitment to such a captivating location, and with the sponsorship of the Cabildo (Island Council) through Turismo de Tenerife (Tenerife Tourism).

A context that professionals continue to reward thanks to the climate, the venues, the quality of the organization, and the infrastructure. And the entry list for the Tenerife Challenger 1 confirms it: the level is high, and the names promise to make their mark in the near future. Among them is Rafa Jodar, the new darling of Iberian fans, as well as several promising young players from the Canary Islands, who will be able to participate thanks to the wild cards granted by the organizers. In this connection between entertainment and tennis promotion, all members of the RFET (Royal Spanish Tennis Federation) and players from Canary Islands clubs will be able to take advantage of a 50% discount on tickets and weekly passes. The traditional Kids Days dedicated to the island’s youth will also be featured.

The Vice President and Tourism Councillor of the Cabildo (Island Council), Lope Afonso, emphasizes that “the hosting of the Tenerife Challenger reinforces the Cabildo’s firm commitment to sports tourism as a tool for diversification and generating value for the destination. Events of this caliber not only project Tenerife’s image internationally, but also contribute to reducing the seasonality of tourism and attracting visitors who value quality, sport, and the island’s privileged climate.”

For the CEO of Turismo de Tenerife, Dimple Melwani, “the island offers an exceptional environment to enjoy top-level tennis, thanks to a mild climate that, year-round, allows for the enjoyment of excellent outdoor facilities and the hosting of international sporting events such as the ATP Challenger, which generate a positive impact on sectors such as hospitality, restaurants, activity companies, and local businesses, while also placing Tenerife on the international tennis calendar and in the spotlight of specialized media.” The CEO of the tourism entity added, “Hosting this tournament at home represents an opportunity for the young Canary Islands tennis prospects selected by the federation, who award wild cards, allowing them to fulfill their dream of taking a leap forward in their sporting careers.” A message from Brendan Breen and Miguel Del Prado Trallero – Among the key figures behind the scenes organizing events in Tenerife are Brendan Breen, director of Abama Golf and Tennis, and Miguel Del Prado Trallero, president of the Tenerife Island Tennis Federation: “Once again, Abama will host the two ATP Challenger tournaments to be held in Tenerife in 2026,” commented Breen. “I would like to express our gratitude to the Tenerife Island Council for their continued support and to MEF Tennis Events for organizing two high-quality professional tennis tournaments. We are proud that the organization has once again chosen our professional facilities.”

Trallero emphasized the importance of these competitions for local players – “Tenerife is once again at the heart of international tennis with a new edition hosting two prestigious Challenger tournaments, a unique opportunity to further promote the sport on the island. These competitions also serve as a powerful incentive for local players, who have the chance to compete, learn, and test themselves against top-level tennis players without leaving home. The Tenerife Island Tennis Federation is experiencing this event with particular enthusiasm and satisfaction. Collaborating closely with the tournament organizers is a true pleasure and a commitment to the growth of tennis in Tenerife, fostering enthusiasm among young talents and consolidating a solid foundation for the future of the sport on the island.”

Entry list: the future lies in Tenerife – This year, the Tenerife Challenger 1 will once again feature one of the most exciting talents on the international scene. First among them is Madrid native Rafa Jodar, born in 2006, who starred in the Next Gen ATP Finals last December and is ranked 150th in the world. His rise has been so rapid that he left collegiate tennis after winning Challenger titles in 2015 in Hersonissos, Lincoln, and Charlottesville. His start to 2016 was equally impressive, reaching the final of the Canberra Challenger, a prelude to the Australian Open. Not yet Next Gen ATP players, but highly anticipated for a key season, the top two seeds will be Francesco Passaro (ATP No. 140) and Francesco Maestrelli (ATP No. 141). The Spanish contingent, awaiting wildcards for the main draw, will be represented by Daniel Mérida (ATP No. 164) and Alejandro Moro Cañas (ATP No. 242). Italy will also be represented by Stefano Travaglia (ATP No. 189) and Lorenzo Giustino (ATP No. 210). When discussing the future, it’s essential to mention 2005-born players Arthur Gea and Gilles-Arnaud Bailly, 2006-born Joel Schwartzler, and 2007-born Benjamin Willwerth, who recently graduated from the junior circuit, where he reached a career-high ranking of world No. 4.

José Sepúlveda announces the Canary Islands wild cards – “It is a true honor to welcome a new edition of the Tenerife Challenger,” said the president of the Canary Islands Tennis Federation, José Sepúlveda, “which once again makes the island the epicenter of international tennis. For two weeks, we will enjoy the talent, excitement, and dedication of top players on the professional circuit in the unique setting of the Abama Tennis Academy. This event goes beyond the purely sporting aspect: it is a commitment to the growth of tennis in the Canary Islands, to bringing high-performance tennis closer to our community, and to creating new opportunities for our young talents, who will have the chance to compete in the qualifying rounds and gain experience in a highly demanding professional environment.”

Rodrigo Ledesma Sosa and Saúl Pacheco Benasayag will be the players participating in the first of two stages on the hard courts of the Abama Resort, while Joel Toral Ocaña and Samuel García Hernández will play in the second tournament: “Our sincerest thanks to the Tenerife Island Council for their unwavering support, to MEF Tennis Events for their impeccable organization, and to all the sponsors and collaborators who make this project possible, now fully established on the ATP Challenger Tour calendar. I also want to acknowledge the involvement of clubs, coaches, referees, and volunteers, who represent the heart and soul of this sport in our islands. Their constant commitment, their dedication to development, and their passion for tennis are essential for these kinds of events to become a reality. To the players, I wish them the greatest success. And to those who join us in the stands, may they experience every point intensely. Because once again, Tenerife awakens emotions.”

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GREAT TENNIS RETURNS TO TENERIFE FROM FEBRUARY 1 TO 15, 2026

JOIN THE TOURNAMENT:

  • The purchase of tickets is possible online on the www.entradas.com website from December 24, 2025 and at the Abama Tennis Academy box office open from January 31st, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.;
  • Until January 9th, all tickets will have a 20% discount.
  • To access it is necessary to present the paper or digital ticket;
  • Each ticket holder can access the Tenerife Stadium (center court) and to all other courts.
  • Children under 12 years old have free access without reservation.

For more details see TERMS AND CONDITIONS *

PROGRAM

February 1, 2026 – from 10:00 am [Qualifiers]

February 2, 2026 – from 10:00 am [Quali and First Round Main Draw singles]

February 3, 2026 – from 10:00 am [First Round Main Draw singles and doubles]

February 4, 2026 – from 10:00 am [Second Round Main Draw singles and doubles]

February 5, 2026 – from 11:00 am [Second Round Main Draw singles and quarters doubles]

February 6, 2026 – from 11:00 am [Quarters Main Draw singles and double semi-finals]

February 7, 2026 – from 11:00 pm [Main Draw singles semifinals and double final]

February 8, 2026 – 11:00 am [Main Draw singles final]

February 9, 2026 – from 10:00 am [Quali and First Round Main Draw singles]

February 10, 2026 – from 10:00 am [First Round Main Draw singles and doubles]

February 11, 2026 – from 10:00 am [Second Round Main Draw singles and doubles]

February 12, 2026 – from 11:00 am [Second Round Main Draw singles and quarters doubles]

February 13, 2026 – from 11:00 am [Quarters Main Draw singles and double semi-finals]

February 14, 2026 – from 11:00 pm [Main Draw singles semifinals and double final]

February 15, 2026 – 11:00 am [Main Draw singles final]

To receive information, please contact the Ticket Office ticket@meftennisevents.com

Tickets can be purchased exclusively online on the entradas.com website.

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Carreno Busta Remains Unstoppable, Clinches Back-To-Back Tenerife Challenger Titles

Pablo Carreño Busta – Picture of Alessandro De Vita

Carreno Busta Remains Unstoppable, Clinches Back-To-Back Tenerife Challenger Titles

by Florian Heer 

Pablo Carreno Busta continued his dominant run in Tenerife, securing back-to-back titles at the Tenerife Challenger 2. The former World No. 10 showcased his experience and consistency, defeating Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic in Sunday’s singles final 6-3, 6-2 to claim his second trophy on the island in as many weeks. With this victory, the 33-year-old Spaniard, who struggled with an elbow injury in recent years, takes another step towards returning to the ATP Tour’s upper ranks, proving that he remains a formidable force on the court.

In front of packed stands on Center Court of the Abama Tennis Academy, Carreno Busta dominated the pair’s first meeting right from the beginning. The World No. 133 saved all six break points he faced and capitalized on all of own his three break-point opportunities to prevail after one hour and 24 minutes. 

“Filip is a tricky opponent. He is very solid from the baseline,” said Carreno Busta, who didn’t drop a set this week. “I knew that I would need to have a good rhythm, serving well. I tried to be aggressive all the time. The first set was pretty close, as I needed to save a lot of break points. But in the second set, I played better and could win the match.”

By capturing his 13th ATP Challenger Tour career title, he earned € 12,980 in prize money as well as 75 ATP Ranking points.

“My confidence has been growing. Obviously, when you are winning matches, things on the court are getting better. I was focused on every match and tried to do my best. Both weeks here were fantastic. After 10 matches in a row, I will now take some rest before competing in the qualifying at Indian Wells,” Carreno Busta said.

Tenerife Challenger important part of the Challenger series in Spain

Miguel Diaz Roman, president of the Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET), praised MEF Tennis Events for their exceptional organization and the importance of the ATP Challenger Tour events for professional tennis in Spain.

 “For us, these tournaments are fundamental,” said the RFET president after last week’s singles final in Tenerife. Diaz Roman also praised MEF Tennis Events for their work in promoting Tenerife as a premier tennis destination: “The Abama Tennis Academy is an outstanding facility, and Marcello Marchesini (MEF Tennis Events president) understands the importance of these events. With the support of sponsors, I am sure the tournament will continue to grow.”

Tenerife – Tennis Paradise

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is the perfect destination for tennis players of all levels. With its year-round warm climate, world-class facilities, and stunning natural surroundings, the island offers the perfect conditions for training, competition, and leisure.

With over 300 days of sunshine per year and mild temperatures averaging between 18°C and 25°C, players can train and compete comfortably without worrying about extreme heat or cold. 

Beyond tennis, Tenerife provides perfect recovery options, including beachside relaxation, spa treatments, and outdoor activities like hiking and swimming. The island’s diverse landscape, from golden beaches to volcanic mountains, makes it an attractive location for both training and unwinding.


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Carreno Busta Keeps Rolling, Reaches Back-To-Back Finals In Tenerife

Pablo Carreno Busta – Picture of Alejandro Fumero

Carreno Busta Keeps Rolling, Reaches Back-To-Back Finals In Tenerife

by Florian Heer

The two-week Tenerife Challenger series is heading into its final weekend, with thrilling matches and intense competition setting the stage for an exciting conclusion.

Pablo Carreno Busta of Spain continued his impressive comeback run by securing a spot in Sunday’s championship match, marking his second consecutive final on the biggest of the Canary Islands. The former World No. 10, who won the Tenerife Challenger 1 title last week, maintained his strong form with a determined performance in the stage of the last four on Saturday.

On a windy but sunny afternoon with temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius at the Abama Tennis Academy in Guía de Isora, Carreno Busta eased past Benjamin Hassan of Lebanon 6-3, 6-2. The No. 3 seed of the ATP Challenger Tour 75 hard-court tournament organized by MEF Tennis Events sent down four aces and won 74 per cent of his first-service points to advance in one hour and 15 minutes.

“I can’t remember the last time I won nine matches in a row,” said World No. 133 Carreno Busta. “It must have been a very long time ago. Things are going really well for me. Today was tough with so much wind, but I stayed in the match, served well, and kept my focus. I feel very comfortable in Tenerife. From day one, I have received so many messages of support, and that means a lot to me.” 

The second deep run within a fortnight further cements Carreno Busta’s return to the ATP Tour after dealing with an elbow injury in recent seasons. With a second consecutive title on the line, the 33-year-old Gijon native now sets his sights on the final, where he will aim to continue his resurgence and climb back up the rankings.

Misolic: From qualifying to the title match

Carreno Busta will take on Filip Misolic. The 23-year-old Austrian qualifier defeated Spanish alternate Daniel Rincon 6-3, 6-2. Misolic capitalized on four of his eight break-point chances to advance in one hour and 18 minutes.

“It was a tough match with the wind, but I managed it very well. I keep improving throughout the week. That’s the most important thing,” said Misolic, who has reached his first ATP Challenger Tour final since finishing runner-up on home soil in Mauthausen in May 2023. 

“It feels good to be back in a final. It will be tough as it will be my seventh match of the week, but I am looking forward to it.”

The World No. 313 is seeking his third Challenger career title after 2022 Zagreb (Croatia) and Roseto (Italy) last season. Carreno Busta could lift his 13th Challenger career trophy. The pair will meet for the first time. 

Merino & Negritu claim first title of the season

Earlier in the day, Alexander Merino of Peru und Germany’s Christoph Negritu captured the doubles title. The duo battled past No. 4 seeds Daniel Cukierman from Israel and Briton Joshua Paris 2-6, 6-3, 10-8 in one hour and 28 minutes. 

Merino and Negritu earned their fourth team title on the ATP Challenger Tour following their triumphs in Dobrich (Bulgaria), Sibiu (Romania) and Valencia (Spain) last year. They split € 4,540 in prize money and collected 75 ATP Doubles Ranking points.


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Carreno Busta Returns To Winners’ Circle At Tenerife Challenger

Carreño Busta – Photo of Alejandro Fumero

Carreno Busta Returns To Winners’ Circle At Tenerife Challenge

Pablo Carreno Busta marked a triumphant return to the winners’ circle by capturing the Tenerife Challenger title, his first tournament victory since lifting the trophy of the ATP Masters 1000 event in Montreal, Canada in August 2022. The former World No. 10 from Spain showcased his trademark resilience and consistency throughout the week, securing a confidence boost in his comeback journey.

Dream run in “Tennis Paradise”

Held on the stunning Canary Island of Tenerife, the ATP Challenger Tour 75 hard-court event provided the perfect setting for the 33-year-old Asturias native to rediscover his winning form. The picturesque coastal venue, with its warm climate and ideal playing conditions, set the stage for an exciting week of tennis.

After battling past Italians Federico Arnaboldi and Giovanni Fonio, as well as Vilius Gaubas from Lithuania and Spaniard Pol Martin Tiffon, Carreno Busta delivered a commanding performance in Sunday’s singles final, winning 6-3, 6-2 over his fifth-seeded compatriot Alejandro Moro Canas. 

In front of an enthusiastic crowd at the Abama Tennis Academy in Guía de Isora, Carreno Busta saved all three break points he faced and converted three of his own five break-point opportunities to prevail after one hour and 23 minutes.

“Of course, this was very emotional today, as it has been a long time that I played a final,” the World No. 149 said. “It was an amazing week. I felt very comfortable here with my family attending the matches. I think this is one of the best places to play tennis in Spain and also in the world.”

With new team, back to old strength

With this victory, the Spaniard takes a significant step forward in his return from an elbow injury and aims to build momentum for the rest of the year. With the start of the new season, Carreno Busta navigated significant changes to his team. After a long partnership with Samuel Lopez – who has now joined Carlos Alcaraz’s camp – the Gijon native left Villena and returned to Barcelona, where his professional tennis journey first began. At the Tennis Empowerment Center, he aims to rediscover the level of play that once propelled him into the Top 10. Now guided by Victor Lopez Moron, Carreno Busta has made a notable step forward in Tenerife.

“I am glad to know that I am able to play at this level. My confidence is growing by winning these kinds of tournaments,” Carreno Busta said.  

By capturing his 12th ATP Challenger Tour career title, his first since 2015, he earned € 12,980 in prize money as well as 75 ATP Ranking points. Carreno Busta’s journey in Tenerife is not over yet. The seven-time tour-level champion will also compete in next week’s Tenerife Challenger 2. Again, as the tournament’s No. 3 seed, he will start his campaign against Chinese alternate Jie Cui. 



 

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Carreno Busta Back In Tennis Paradise

Photo by Alejandro Fumero

Carreno Busta Back In Tennis Paradise, Reaches Tenerife Challenger Final
by Florian Heer

The ATP Challenger Tour is back in the stunning Canary Islands for two consecutive Tenerife Challenger tournaments, taking place at the prestigious Abama Tennis Academy. Known for its breathtaking coastal views and world-class facilities, the venue once again welcomes rising stars and established professionals competing for valuable ATP ranking points and titles. With a vibrant atmosphere and ideal playing conditions, the Tenerife Challenger series delivers high-level tennis action in one of the most picturesque locations on the Challenger Circuit.

Carreno Busta back in a final
Pablo Carreno Busta headlines the action this week, as the former Top 10 star from Spain has reached his first final since claiming the title of the ATP Masters 1000 event in Montreal, Canada in August 2022. Following wins over Italians Federico Arnaboldi and Giovanni Fonio, as well as No. 6 seed Vilius Gaubas from Lithuania, the third seed from Asturias eased past Pol Martin Tiffon of Spain 6-4, 6-0 on Saturday. Carreno Busta sent down four aces, saved all nine break points he faced and capitalized on four of his own 11 break-point opportunities to secure victory in one hour and 23 minutes.
“Of course, this isn’t a Masters 1000 final like Montreal, but the level on the Challenger Tour is very good and I am very happy to be here,” said Carreno Busta, whose career was stopped in its tracks by an elbow injury. “Breaking serve early helped me, and then in the second set, I played even better. My tennis is improving day by day and of course I want to win the final tomorrow. That’s my next goal.”

Tenerife: Winter tennis paradise
Carreno Busta hasn’t been in Tenerife for a long time but is glad to be back enjoying the nice weather for playing outdoor tennis. While much of Europe battles cold temperatures and indoor conditions, Tenerife offers players the perfect blend of sunshine, warmth, and stunning natural surroundings. The island’s mild climate and gentle ocean breeze create ideal playing conditions, allowing athletes to train and compete at their best. Beyond the courts, the tremendous landscapes – from volcanic mountains to pristine beaches – provide a refreshing escape and an opportunity to recharge both physically and mentally.
About 16 years ago, the former World No. 10 competed in a sub-18 tournament at the Abama Tennis Academy. Now, Carreno Busta has returned to the largest island of the archipelago and is seeking the title of the Tenerife Challenger.

Moro Canas awaits Carreno Busta
The 33-year-old Gijon native will take on fellow Spaniard Alejandro Moro Canas in the championship match. The No. 5 seed outlasted fourth favourite Henrique Rocha from Portugal 6-2, 6-7(6), 6-0 in two hours and 21 minutes.
“I am very pleased to reach my first final of the season and third of my career,” said Moro Canas. “It’s very special to experience a final at home against another Spaniard, which shows that Spanish tennis is thriving.”
World No. 164 Moro Canas is bidding for his second ATP Challenger Tour career title after lifting the trophy in Rome, Italy in late April last year. Carreno Busta could clinch his 12th Challenger career crown in addition to his seven tour-level trophies. Carreno Busta and Moro Canas will meet for the first time.

Cervantes/Rincon triumph in doubles
Earlier in the day, Inigo Cervantes and Daniel Rincon captured the doubles title. The No. 4 seeds emerged victorious from the all-Spanish final, winning 6-2, 6-4 over wild card entries Nicolas Alvaraz-Varona and Inaki Montes-De-La-Torre in 62 minutes.
Cervantes and Rincon earned their second ATP Challenger Tour team title following their triumph in Tampere, Finland in July last year. They split € 4,540 in prize money and collected 75 ATP Doubles Ranking points.

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MELWANI: “TOURISM AND SPORT, A UNIQUE OFFER ON THE ISLAND”

TENERIFE CHALLENGER PRESENTED

MELWANI: “TOURISM AND SPORT, A UNIQUE OFFER ON THE ISLAND”

DANIEL CAVERZASCHI GUEST OF THE TOURNAMENT ON FEBRUARY 1 AND 2

Tenerife, January 30, 2025 – The Tenerife Challenger tournaments were presented in the Salon Noble of the Cabildo de Tenerife. These ATP Challenger 75 tournaments are organized by MEF Tennis Events on the hard courts of the Abama Tennis Academy and will be held from February 2 to 16. Representatives of Turismo de Tenerife, the main sponsor of the events, participated in the press conference: Dimple Melwani, Tenerife Tourism CEO, and Lope Afonso, vice president of the Cabildo de Tenerife and Tourism counselor. They were joined by Brendan Breen, director of Abama Golf and Tennis; Candela Garrido Castillo, technical director of the Canary Islands Tennis Federation; Miguel del Prado Trallero, president of the Tenerife Island Tennis Federation; and David Marrero, former ATP number 5 in doubles.

Tenerife Tourism in support of tennis – The vice president and councilor for Tourism of the Cabildo de Tenerife, Lope Afonso, states that: “Tennis and professional sporting events are an attraction for the destination. This event is a great opportunity for Tenerife and they implement numerous activities that enhance the image of Tenerife for millions of fans of this sport.” Afonso adds that the Tenerife Challenger offers “an unforgettable experience for all attendees. From the opportunity to meet tennis stars face to face and to explore the charms of Tenerife. The tournament fuses the best of sport and leisure in a single event on the island.” For the CEO of Tenerife Tourism, Dimple Melwani, “the island offers an exceptional environment to enjoy the best tennis, thanks to a mild climate that, throughout the year, allows you to enjoy excellent outdoor facilities and host international sporting events such as the ATP Challenger.” The CEO of the tourism entity adds that these tournaments will allow attendees, as well as those who follow the tournament through the different communication channels, “to get closer to the natural jewel that is our island, with diverse landscapes, volcanic beaches and unique enclaves to discover, our Teide National Park and endless scenarios to explore.” For Melwani, it is a great satisfaction that this year, promising Canarian tennis players, to whom the organisation has assigned wild cards, will also be taking part in the tournaments.

Daniel Caverzaschi as a guest of the tournament – ​​On 1 and 2 February, wheelchair tennis champion Daniel Caverzaschi will be one of the stars of the Tenerife Challenger. The Spanish number 9 tennis player in the world, born in 1993, has represented Spain at the Paralympic Games on four occasions. In 2024 he won the bronze medal in the doubles tournament in Paris, while his 2025 season began with the final of the Australian Open in the same specialty. On 1 February, Caverzaschi will hold a clinic with wheelchair tennis players, as well as with adults and children without disabilities. On 2 February, after the first match of the qualifying phase, he will offer a small exhibition with David Marrero on the Centre Court.

Abama Tennis Academy, the home of the Tenerife Challenger – One of the symbols of the Tenerife Challenger is Abama Tennis Academy, which has been the home of the tournament for many years, with its seven hard courts and its exceptional setting. In 2021, the WTA 250 organised by MEF Tennis Events at the club was awarded as the best women’s tournament in this category. In addition, over the years, many top-level players, such as Brandon Nakashima, Fabio Fognini and Martín Landaluce, have been protagonists of the events. “First of all, I would like to thank Turismo de Tenerife for supporting tennis, contributing to raising the quality of the tournaments more and more,” said Brendan Breen, director of Abama Golf and Tennis. “I am very happy and excited that Abama continues to host many professionals and all the people who come to the club to see them give their all in the fight for victory and to climb the world rankings.”

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