Domingues Dominates In Mestre For First Challenger Title

Joao Domingues is eager to lift more trophies on the ATP Challenger Tour now that he has a taste for the top prizes. The Portuguese clinched his first title with a 7-6(4), 6-4 triumph over Sebastian Ofner in Mestre, Italy, on Sunday.

Two years removed from his last Challenger main draw in Barranquilla, Colombia, the 23 year old was making just his third appearance on the circuit. Having enjoyed the majority of his success at the ITF Futures level, claiming seven titles from 18 finals, he is eager to take the leap to the next level.

“I’m very happy with this win, it’s my first title on the ATP Challenger Tour,” said Domingues. “I’m playing very well this year, so I couldn’t be happier right now. It makes me feel proud and motivated to get better and better.”

Domingues was made to fight for the trophy, prevailing in a trio of tight three-set matches to open his account in Mestre. He became the eighth first-time winner on the ATP Challenger Tour this year and second from Portugal. Pedro Sousa also claimed victory on the Italian clay, prevailing in Francavilla del Mare last month. Domingues admits the title was on his mind over the weekend.

“I played my game, it was very solid. I felt comfortable all week,” added the Portuguese. “I tried not to think about it (winning the trophy). Sometimes it is impossible because it is normal to be nervous, especially in your first Challenger final. I won, so I did a good job.”

Riding a wave of confidence after a breakthrough week at the Millennium Estoril Open, his home ATP World Tour event, Domingues’ maiden triumph on the ATP Challenger Tour comes as no surprise. Less than a month ago, he turned in a stunning run to the second round in Estoril, scoring his first tour-level match win over World No. 41 Kyle Edmund after emerging from qualifying. 

Domingues had never beaten a Top 200 player entering the week and nearly notched back-to-back signature victories, falling 7-5 in the third set to Kevin Anderson in the second round. It proved to be the catalyst for his success in Mestre.

“It was a big confidence boost for me,” said the Porto resident. “It was a great tournament for me.”

A year ago, he was at No. 542 in the Emirates ATP Rankings. However, as a reward for his Estoril exploits and breaking new Challenger ground in Mestre, Domingues climbs to a career-high No. 176, making his debut in the Top 200.

Despite such a rapid rise, Domingues remains focused on his goals for the remainder of the 2017 season. He will look to carry the momentum into this week’s Challenger stop in Vicenza, Italy, where he opens against Uladzimir Ignatik of Belarus.

“I must keep working, keep trying to do my best and to play better tennis.”