Rafael Matos and Marcelo Melo have earned their spot in the final of the Rio Open, marking yet another significant achievement for Brazilian tennis. The duo triumphed over the Italian Luciano Darderi and the Argentine Mariano Navone on the evening of February 21, 2025, showcasing remarkable resilience to win by the scores of 6/7 (3), 6/3, and 10/5 at the Jockey Club Brasileiro.
After starting the match on the back foot and losing the first set, Matos and Melo turned the tide with their collective experience and energy, much appreciated by the cheering crowd. The initial set was fiercely contested, and the Brazilian duo struggled against their opponents, who established an early lead. Matos and Melo, down 5-3, managed to rally, winning three consecutive games and forcing the set to a tie-break. Unfortunately, they couldn’t maintain the momentum and lost the tie-break 7-3.
With their backs against the wall, the pair regrouped for the second set. This time, they took charge early on, seizing the lead at 3-1, and maintained the pressure throughout, eventually winning 6-3 and leveling the match. The win was not without its challenges; the Brazilian pair faced some anxious moments but showcased their skills to emerge victorious.
It was the decisive super tie-break where Matos and Melo truly shone. Quickly taking control, they opened up a 5-1 lead, showcasing skillful play and teamwork. Although they faced some resistance from Darderi and Navone, the Brazilian duo concluded the match with finesse, finishing the tie-break at 10-5, much to the delight of the local crowd.
Post-match, Marcelo Melo expressed the significance of the victory, stating, "It is very special. Rafa won here last year, and it feels great to return to the final. With my experience and his energy, who knows, we might lift the trophy as a 100% Brazilian duo." His words reflect the pride and motivation they carry as they prepare for the final.
The final will take place on February 22 against the Spanish pairing of Pedro Martínez and Jaume Munar, who secured their spot by defeating the top-seeded Argentinians, Máximo González and Andrés Molteni. This set up what promises to be an exciting match, with all eyes on the Brazilian duo aiming to make history by becoming the first entirely Brazilian pair to win the Rio Open.
Matos commented on the overwhelming support from the crowd, saying, "What you are hearing is what drives us for strength and energy. They started at another speed, but we maintained our calm and began to build. The crowd’s energy lifted us, and we changed strategy. I am extremely happy to play this final with Rafa." His narrative captures the essence of Brazilian tennis culture, where home support can make all the difference.
This will be Matos’ second trip to the Rio Open finals and Melo’s third, having previously been the runner-up twice. The duo’s performance has rekindled excitement among Brazilian tennis fans, many of whom turned out to support them live, including João Fonseca, one of Brazil’s tennis sensations, who was seen cheering from the stands.
The significance of their achievement cannot be overstated: it marks the first time the finals will feature two players from Brazil, which adds to the pride of these athletes and their fans alike. Fans will undoubtedly flood the stands on Saturday, creating a vibrant atmosphere to push Matos and Melo toward victory.
The countdown to the final is on, with the Brazilian crowd eager to share their unwavering support. Will Matos and Melo take home the coveted trophy? Only time will tell, but the stage is set for what promises to be an unforgettable showdown at the Rio Open.