The drought is over! Felix Auger-Aliassime roared back to the winner’s circle in Adelaide, claiming his sixth ATP title with a gutsy 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 victory over Sebastian Korda. In a thrilling clash of 24-year-old talents, the Canadian rediscovered his champion’s form to lift his first trophy since Basel 2023. The final, lasting an hour and 49 minutes, showcased determination, resilience, and a hunger for redemption from both players.
Two Stars, One Prize, and a Battle of Comebacks
For both Auger-Aliassime and Korda, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. The Canadian, despite glimpses of brilliance like reaching the Madrid Masters final in 2024, had struggled to capture titles. Meanwhile, Korda, returning from right elbow surgery that sidelined him late last season, aimed to make a fairytale comeback. But in tennis, there’s room for only one champion.
Korda, who suffered heartbreak in Adelaide two years ago after squandering a match point against Novak Djokovic, couldn’t reverse his fortunes this time. Auger-Aliassime, fueled by his rock-solid serve and precision under pressure, seized the moment in the decider to emerge victorious.
Felix’s Dominance in Key Moments
The stats tell the story of Felix’s brilliance. He won 25 more points than Korda, powered by an impeccable first serve and steady second-serve defense. Saving four of five break points, Auger-Aliassime applied unrelenting pressure on Korda, who struggled with his second serve and won just 57% of his service points overall.
The first set saw Auger-Aliassime fend off early break points before breaking Korda at love in the sixth game to take control. He served out the set in commanding fashion, holding at love in game nine with a thunderous service winner to claim the opener 6-3 in just 39 minutes.
Korda Fights Back, but Felix Refuses to Falter
Korda wasn’t going down without a fight. The American stepped up in the second set, saving break points and pouncing on Felix’s forehand error in the eighth game to secure a crucial break. Serving for the set at 5-3, Korda capitalized on his third set point, leveling the match and reigniting the Adelaide crowd.
But in the decider, Auger-Aliassime found another gear. The Canadian dropped just one point across four service games, exuding confidence and control. A double break sealed Korda’s fate, as Felix served out the match at love with an unreturnable serve, completing a 6-1 masterclass in the final set.
A Champion Reborn
This victory marks a turning point for Auger-Aliassime, who has now reasserted himself as a force to be reckoned with on the ATP Tour. At 24, he becomes a beacon of resilience and determination, overcoming doubts and setbacks to reclaim his spot at the top.
For Korda, the journey back to peak form continues. His run to the final in his first tournament post-surgery is a testament to his grit, even if the Adelaide trophy remains elusive.
What’s Next?
With the Australian Open on the horizon, both Auger-Aliassime and Korda will look to build on their Adelaide performances. For Felix, this title isn’t just a trophy—it’s a statement. The Canadian has reignited his momentum, and the rest of the field should take note: Felix is back, and he’s hungry for more.