Diallo: ‘Surreal to have the trophy’

Libéma Open will forever hold a special place in Gabriel Diallo’s heart. The rising star of Canadian tennis took part in the tournament for the first time in 2025 and immediately took the top prize.

‘I was so nervous on my match points! Sometimes it’s about a few points here and there. It looked like it was going to be a three-setter, but a moment later I still had the trophy in my hands,’ Diallo told a few moments after his 7-5 7-6(8) victory over Zizou Bergs in the final.

For both men, who are good friends and will soon play doubles together at Wimbledon, a first ATP title was at stake. With his win, Diallo avoided the Belgian double, as Elise Mertens already became champion in the women’s singles earlier in the day.

‘It feels surreal to have the trophy. Hopefully this marks the start of something special,’ said the eloquent Diallo, who is set to reach the top 50 after his week of success in the Netherlands (his first ever visit).

‘You always tell yourself that you play every tournament to win, but because of the rain, I could only train for a few hours prior to the tournament. So the preparations were not ideal. I’m glad I was able to apply so many things on the court so quickly.’

Even before the final, the 2.03-metre tall Diallo indicated that Libéma Open will stay with him forever. His name is now immortalised as the first Canadian champion in tournament history.