Roberto Bautista Agut, the seasoned Spanish tennis star, marked a significant milestone in his career by securing his 100th tour-level win on clay at the Țiriac Open, an ATP 250 event held in Bucharest.
The 36-year-old veteran battled past China’s Bu Yunchaokete in a gripping Round of 32 match, ultimately clinching a 3-6, 6-2, 7-5 victory after a contest that showcased his trademark resilience on the red dirt.
The match, played on the clay courts of the Nastase & Marica Sports Club, was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts. Bu, ranked No. 67 in the world, came out strong in the first set, breaking Bautista Agut’s serve to take it 6-3. However, the Spaniard, known for his consistency and tactical prowess, adjusted his game in the second set, dominating with a 6-2 scoreline to level the match. The deciding set was a test of endurance, with both players trading breaks before Bautista Agut sealed the win with a 7-5 score after a gruelling two-and-a-half-hour battle.
This victory not only marked Bautista Agut’s 100th win on clay but also highlighted his enduring competitiveness on a surface where he has historically excelled. With an 8-6 record on clay over the past 12 months and a 75.2% service game win rate on the surface, the Spaniard continues to prove his mettle against younger opponents like the 23-year-old Bu, who has been making waves on the ATP Tour.
The Țiriac Open, held from March 31 to April 6, 2025, has already delivered high-octane tennis action, with a competitive field that includes top players like Sebastian Baez and Nicolas Jarry.
Bautista Agut’s win sets up an intriguing path forward in the tournament, as he aims to add another title to his illustrious career, which includes 11 ATP singles titles and a career-high ranking of No. 9 in 2019.
Reflecting on the milestone, Bautista Agut said, “It’s a special moment to reach 100 wins on clay, a surface I’ve always loved playing on. Bu pushed me to my limits today, and I’m proud of how I fought back to get the win.”
As the Țiriac Open progresses, all eyes will be on Bautista Agut to see if he can maintain his momentum and make a deep run in Bucharest, further cementing his legacy as one of Spain’s finest clay-court players.
