Rafael Matos and Marcelo Melo made history by winning the Rio Open 2025 Doubles Championship, securing the first all-Brazilian title at this prestigious tournament. The final, held on February 23, 2025, showcased the duo's impressive skills and teamwork as they triumphed over Spain's Pedro Martínez and Jaume Munar.
Played at the Jockey Club Brasileiro in Rio de Janeiro, the match began with both teams showing competitive spirit. The support from the Brazilian crowd filled the Quadra Central Guga Kuerten with energy, setting the stage for what would become a memorable game for Brazilian tennis.
Lasting 1 hour and 37 minutes, the final ended with Matos and Melo outplaying their Spanish rivals, winning in straight sets with scores of 6/2 and 7/5. Matos, who had previously won the title alongside Colombian Nicolás Barrientos in 2024, expressed his delight with the victory. "I just want to say it wasn't Marcelo who picked me. I had to ask him three times to accept playing with me. Being at the Rio Open, in Brazil, with all this support, is indescribable. The energy you all pass on shows here on the court. (The final) was a tactical battle, and we deserved it," Matos said, clearly moved by the occasion.
For Melo, this title marked his first win at the Rio Open after two previous attempts at claiming the championship. At 41 years old, he noted the significance of this win, stating, "I was smart to choose Rafa to show me the ropes. Everybody around knows how much I wanted this title. I've been crazy about tennis for 41 years and have heard many comments about me wanting to stop playing, but I still have the fire." Now, he joins the ranks of elite players with two titles at this ATP 500 event.
The match itself was punctuated with moments of suspense. The Brazilian duo navigated breaks of serve with remarkable composure, displaying both their athletic prowess and mental strength. Early on, the Spanish pair managed to secure a break, but Matos and Melo quickly found their rhythm, breaking back and then some during the first set, which they emphatically closed out.
During the second set, the pressure intensified as both teams exchanged points vigorously. Matos and Melo faced multiple break points but managed to fend them off, displaying resilience under pressure. Achieving several match points, the Brazilian pair finally converted one when Melo executed a deft volley, sending the crowd—filled with fans including promising young Brazilian player João Fonseca—into wild celebration.
This victory not only solidifies their partnership but reflects on the resurgence of Brazilian tennis on the international stage. Their collective achievements, having competed together since May 2024, include four final appearances after winning tournaments like the ATP 250 Stuttgart 2024 and vice championships at ATP events in Washington and Buenos Aires. This new chapter showcases their potential moving forward, especially with the backing of passionate local fans.
With this win at the Rio Open 2025, Matos and Melo prove what dedication and teamwork can accomplish. They leave with the championship trophy, dreams of future contests, and new aspirations fueled by their latest accomplishments on the ATP Tour. Their remarkable performance will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Brazilian tennis players.