Photo : Jean-Samuel Gauthier

Maxime Cressy was crowned champion at the sixth edition of the Drummondville National Bank Challenger. The tournament, which offers $54,160 in total prize money, was played from February 17-23 at the René-Verrier indoor tennis club in Drummondville.

It was (almost) an all French final at the Drummondville Challenger on Sunday, as Arthur Rinderknech, the 12th seed, and Maxime Cressy, the 14th seed, were battling it our for the title. While he was born in Paris, France, Cressy has been representing the United States since 2018 and plays collegiate tennis on the NCAA circuit. Rinderknech, a native of Paris, France, also competed on the NCAA circuit. He was taking part in his second final of the year, having been crowned champion of a Challenger a few weeks ago in France.

Both players were competing in Drummondville for the very first time in their careers. Play was incredibly tight in the opening set, as both players were consistent on serve. It was Rinderknech who took the lead thanks to a strong performance in the tiebreak. However, the Frenchman experienced some difficulties in the second, requiring a medical timeout where he was treated by the physio. Cressy stepped up his game and took advantage of his opponent’s level that was fading to bring the match to a third and decisive set. The American continued the stellar serving that he had demonstrated throughout the week and captured his second ATP Challenger title, thanks to a 6-7(4), 6-4, 6-4 victory over Rinderknech. Cressy went the entire tournament without having been broken.

“It has been an incredible week here in Drummondville. I want to thank everyone who helped to organize the event, from the volunteers, to the ball kids and the organizing committee. A special thanks to the fans who came out to support the players all week. It is not every tournament that has this many people show up and encourage the players. You guys were amazing!”

The tournament had another stellar year, notably reaching their highest attendance numbers yet, as 6,257 fans attended the event throughout the week.

 

*Feature photo: Jean-Samuel Gauthier

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