Upset Alert on Day 1 of the Nitto ATP Finals! The tennis world was shaken as Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos delivered a stunning blow to the defending champions, Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz, in a thrilling three-set battle. But here's where it gets controversial—was this victory a testament to Granollers and Zeballos' rising dominance, or a sign of the champions' unexpected vulnerability? Let’s dive in.
On November 9, 2025, in Turin, the Spaniard-Argentine duo extended their flawless record against the German pair, securing a 6-4, 4-6, 10-6 win. This marked their second victory over Krawietz and Puetz this year, bringing their Lexus ATP Head2Head record to an impressive 4-0. With this win, Granollers and Zeballos took their first step toward chasing their sixth title of the season, proving that their consistency and teamwork are forces to be reckoned with.
“It’s super important to start the tournament well,” Granollers remarked. “Every match counts, every set counts. Starting with a victory was crucial for us.” This mindset reflects their strategic approach, as they aim to maintain momentum throughout the tournament. And this is the part most people miss—in high-stakes competitions like the Nitto ATP Finals, mental fortitude and early wins can be game-changers.
Both teams showcased remarkable resilience, saving eight out of nine break points, according to Infosys ATP Stats. However, it was Granollers and Zeballos who elevated their game in the Match Tie-break, taking a commanding 8/3 lead at one point. “It was a really tough match, as we expected,” Zeballos admitted. “Every match here feels like a final, especially against such a strong team. Staying positive after losing the second set was key.”
This victory marks Granollers and Zeballos' sixth consecutive appearance at the Nitto ATP Finals, where they hold an 8-11 record. Notably, they reached the final in 2023, proving their ability to compete at the highest level. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Can they go all the way this year, or will the competition prove too fierce? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
As the tournament unfolds, one thing is clear: Granollers and Zeballos are not just here to compete—they’re here to dominate. Will they continue their winning streak, or will another duo rise to challenge them? Stay tuned to find out!
