Francisco Cerúndolo Wins Queen's Title in Thrilling Match Against Tommy Paul
Francisco Cerúndolo made history by becoming the first Argentine player to win the prestigious Queen's title, defeating American Tommy Paul in a grueling three-hour match on June 21, 2026. The 29-year-old Argentine tennis player outlasted his opponent, winning 6-7(4) 6-4 6-3.
What Happened in the Match?
The match was a high-quality duel full of fierce baseline rallies, with both players giving their all. Paul, the Queen's champion in 2024, looked to have got the upper hand in the opening set, winning the tiebreak after breaking Cerúndolo's serve to love. However, Cerúndolo took full advantage of Paul's dip in level to send the match into a deciding third set.
Why It Matters for Francisco Cerúndolo
Cerúndolo's win is a significant achievement for the Argentine tennis player, who has been working tirelessly to improve his game. The victory marks his first ATP 500 title and his second career grasscourt title, following his win at Eastbourne in 2023. Cerúndolo's parents, who have never seen him play overseas due to a fear of flying, were in the crowd to witness his historic win.
What Comes Next for Francisco Cerúndolo?
Cerúndolo's win at Queen's Club sets him up for a strong run at Wimbledon, which begins on June 28, 2026. The Argentine tennis player will look to build on his momentum and make a deep run in the tournament. With his confidence boosted by his Queen's title, Cerúndolo is ready to take on the best players in the world.
Cerúndolo's victory was not without its challenges, however. He squandered three match points as Paul served at 2-5 in the decider, one with a net cord. But the Argentine tennis player finished the job in the next game on his serve, pummelling away a smash to end the longest final in the grasscourt tournament's history at three hours and two minutes.
"I'm super happy and super proud of myself," Cerúndolo said in an interview with the BBC. "Coming from Argentina and winning my first ATP 500 at such an historical event, I could never imagine it."
Cerúndolo's win is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. The Argentine tennis player has spent countless hours on the court, honing his skills and perfecting his game. His victory at Queen's Club is a reward for his efforts, and he is ready to take on the next challenge in his career.
Cerúndolo's father, Alejandro, was in the crowd to witness his son's historic win. The 29-year-old American was a break ahead in the second set but his level dipped, allowing Cerúndolo to take full advantage and send the match into a deciding third set.
The Argentine tennis player looked the fresher player as he moved ahead in the third set, despite a few nerves. He held firm to win his second career grasscourt title, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Cerúndolo's win at Queen's Club is a significant achievement for the Argentine tennis player, and he is ready to take on the best players in the world. With his confidence boosted by his title, Cerúndolo is set to make a deep run in Wimbledon, which begins on June 28, 2026.
category: match_report