Rei Sakamoto, 19, Clinches Challenger Crown on Home Soil
Japanese rising star among seven champions crowned in the Challenger circuit this week
November 24, 2025
Showcase: Yokohama Keio Challenger by Mita Kosan
Rei Sakamoto’s Historic Victory at the Yokohama Challenger.
By ATP Editorial Team
In a dazzling display of talent, Japan’s Rei Sakamoto wrapped up his season on a high note by clinching an ATP Challenger Tour title in his homeland. The 19-year-old standout emerged victorious at the YOKOHAMA KEIO CHALLENGER by MITA KOSAN, marking a significant milestone as he became the first Japanese teenager to secure three Challenger titles.
As the second seed, Sakamoto showcased his resilience by coming back from a set down in the last three matches of the week. He triumphed over his veteran compatriot Kaichi Uchida in a gripping championship showdown, finishing with a score of 4-6, 7-6(4), 6-4 after more than two hours of thrilling competition.
Reflecting on his remarkable journey through 2025, Sakamoto shared on Instagram, “This year had many ups and downs, but I gave my all in the end. I’m grateful for the unwavering support from everyone around me. I’m looking forward to the offseason and excited about what 2026 will bring!”
Rei Sakamoto makes history for Japan 🇯🇵
The 19-year-old becomes the first Japanese teenager ever to win three Challenger titles! #ATPChallenger pic.twitter.com/rYmaWWC9kg
— ATP Challenger Tour (@ATPChallenger) November 23, 2025
Currently ranked 10th in the PIF ATP Live Race To Jeddah, Sakamoto added this title to his two previous Challenger trophies, with his latest win occurring in Cary, North Carolina.
Notably, former World No. 4 Kei Nishikori also competed in Yokohama, reaching the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Uchida. This marked Nishikori’s return to the court since the Cincinnati Open.
Maestrelli Claims Title in Bergamo
Italian Francesco Maestrelli celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Internazionali di Bergamo, joining a prestigious list of past winners like Jannik Sinner, Matteo Berrettini, Holger Rune, and Jack Draper. He sealed his victory against German Marko Topo with scores of 6-3, 3-6, 6-1, propelling him to a career-high No. 138 in the PIF ATP Rankings.
Francesco Maestrelli celebrates at the 20th anniversary of the Bergamo Challenger. Credit: Antonio Milesi
Vallejo Reaches New Heights After Guayaquil Win
Paraguayan Adolfo Daniel Vallejo achieved a new career milestone by winning the Challenger Ciudad de Guayaquil, defeating Juan Pablo Varillas in a thrilling match that lasted two hours and 59 minutes, ending with scores of 7-5, 6-7(7), 6-3. Vallejo is now ranked No. 143 in the PIF ATP Rankings.
Adolfo Daniel Vallejo competing at the Guayaquil Challenger. Credit: Challenger Ciudad de Guayaquil
Heide Dominates at Home Without Dropping a Set
Brazilian Gustavo Heide enjoyed a stellar week at the ENGIE Open in Florianopolis, winning his second Challenger title and first of the season with a commanding 6-2, 6-3 victory over Argentine Andrea Collarini. Heide’s earlier title came last year in Asuncion, where he defeated compatriot Joao Fonseca.
Gustavo Heide celebrates his Florianopolis Challenger victory. Credit: Luz Press Luiz Candido
Duckworth Ties Active Title Record at Challenger Level
Australia’s James Duckworth etched his name in the record books by securing his 17th Challenger title, now level with Facundo Bagnis for the most titles among active players at this level. Entering the NSW Open in Sydney, Duckworth impressively won each match without dropping a set, culminating in a final victory of 6-1, 6-4 against 20-year-old Hayato Matsuoka.
James Duckworth during the Sydney Challenger final. Credit: Jake Lim/Tennis Australia
Notably, former World No. 1 Lleyton Hewitt returned from retirement to participate in doubles alongside his 16-year-old son, Cruz Hewitt. The duo won their first-round match but fell in the quarter-finals. Cruz also competed in the singles main draw, achieving his second match win at this level.
Kolar Celebrates Second Title of 2025
Czech Zdenek Kolar returned to glory, clinching his second title of the year at the III Challenger Montemar ENE Construccion in Montemar, Spain, as he beat Gianluca Cadenasso 6-4, 6-4 in the final.
Samuel Shines with Maiden Challenger Trophy
Former University of South Carolina standout Toby Samuel marked a remarkable career milestone by winning his first Challenger title in Soma Bay, Egypt. The 23-year-old British talent overcame his compatriot Jay Clarke with a scoreline of 4-6, 7-6(4), 6-0, catapulting himself to a career-high ranking of No. 329 in the PIF ATP Rankings.
