The Adelaide International is set for a thrilling finale as Felix Auger-Aliassime and Sebastian Korda, two young stars with much to prove, clash for the coveted title. With both players hungry for success, Saturday’s final promises high-stakes drama and relentless competition.
Auger-Aliassime’s Gritty Path to the Final
World No. 29 Felix Auger-Aliassime is back in an ATP final for the first time since his run at the Madrid Masters in 2024. The Canadian displayed sheer determination in his three-set semifinal victory over top seed Tommy Paul, battling for nearly three hours to secure a 7-6, 3-6, 6-4 win.
Auger-Aliassime’s performance was far from flawless—he faced a staggering 12 break points, managing to save eight—but his resilience shone through. Despite struggling on his second serve, Felix held his nerve in crucial moments, including a first-set tiebreak where he snatched control with three mini-breaks.
“It wasn’t my best match, but I stayed in the fight and found a way to win,” Felix reflected after the grueling encounter. Now, he’ll chase his first ATP title since Basel in 2023.
Korda’s Comeback Story
Sebastian Korda’s return to form has been nothing short of remarkable. The 24-year-old American, who missed the end of the 2024 season due to surgery, is making his presence felt in Adelaide. This marks Korda’s ninth career ATP final and his second at this event in just three years—a testament to his affinity for the Adelaide courts.
Korda’s aggressive baseline game and sharp returning have been the backbone of his resurgence. Now, he stands one match away from his second ATP title and a triumphant comeback story.
A Rivalry Renewed
The final between Auger-Aliassime and Korda promises fireworks. Both players are the same age and have followed parallel trajectories, with moments of brilliance punctuated by struggles for consistency. While Felix will be relying on his powerful serve and relentless baseline game, Korda’s all-court prowess and mental toughness will provide a formidable challenge.
Auger-Aliassime enters with a slight edge in confidence, having taken down Korda in their last two encounters. However, Korda’s form this week suggests he’s more than capable of flipping the script.
The Stakes
For Auger-Aliassime, a win would end a two-year title drought and reignite his standing as one of tennis’s brightest talents. For Korda, the victory would signal a full-circle comeback and a return to the elite ranks of the sport. Both players are desperate for the confidence boost a trophy would bring as the 2025 season gains momentum.
Prediction: A Battle of Margins
With both players eager to break through, the final is likely to be a closely contested affair. Expect long rallies, fierce shot-making, and moments of brilliance as they fight for the Adelaide crown.
Who will rise to the occasion—Auger-Aliassime, hungry to reclaim his place among the game’s elite, or Korda, on a mission to announce his triumphant return?
