An unprecedented instance awaits Hans Podlipnik (199°) this Saturday in Poprad-Tatry, as he will compete in a Challenger level final in Slovakia for the first time.
The 27-year-old Chilean confirmed his great level this week by defeating local player Norbert Gombos, the fifth seed, by 6-4, 1-6, 6-2 in a little over two hours, in a match that started late due to rain.
The national player had a 5-3 lead in the first set, but was broken. However, in the next game he broke back to secure the advantage.
After the slump in the second set, where he lost his serve three times, he regained control in the third and sealed the victory decisively.
Podlipnik will go for his first title at this level against Czech player Adan Pavlasek (212°), 20 years old, who defeated the fourth seed, Brazilian Andre Ghem (139°), by 6-3, 6-4.
Last year Podlipnik defeated Pavlasek in the Future 3 tournament in the Czech Republic, so he is the favorite for Saturday's match.