Rio Open: Cerundolo survives in three sets against Darderi

Francisco Cerundolo got past Luciano Darderi in a three-setter on Thursday in Rio de Janeiro. Cerundolo awaits either Tomas Martin Etcheverry or Alexandre Muller.

Tennis Majors

February 21, 2025

Rio Open presented by Claro •Round of 16 • completed

See draw

F. CerundolovsL. Darderi

Francisco Cerundolo, the No 4 seed, came back to beat Italian Luciano Darderi 6-7 (1), 6-3, 6-2 to advance to the last eight of the Rio Open at the Jockey Club Brasileiro in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday night.

Cerundolo, the runner-up to Joao Fonseca last week in Buenos Aires, advanced after two hours and nine minutes. He struck a ridiculous 43 unforced errors, including 24 off the forehand side. However, Cerundolo made up for it with 45 winners to Darderi’s 12.

“I wasn’t really 100 percent (full) of energy,” the Argentine admitted, “because last week I played a lot. This week also. It’s super humid here. After that I started feeling better on the court. I played really good (in) the second and third sets. I’m really happy to get through after losing the first set.

“I tried to play more aggressive, not too many rallies, so I don’t get more tired. I went for the ball more than usual. Of course I’m an aggressive player, but I think I over-hit tonight a little bit. After the first set I stayed more patient, worked the point more.”

Cerundolo will next play the winner of a match between Frenchman Alexandre Muller and Argentinian Tomas Martin Etcheverry. The world No 26 previously defeated Hugo Gaston 7-6 (9), 6-0.

Darderi, ranked No 61, got a retirement from Hugo Dellien (7-6 (2), 2-2, ret.) in the opening round.