Qualifier Alejandro Tabilo Crowned Surprise Auckland Classic Champion

Chilean qualifier Alejandro Tabilo capped a "crazy ride" by winning the Auckland Classic on Saturday

Chilean qualifier Alejandro Tabilo capped a "crazy ride" by winning the Auckland Classic on Saturday, beating Taro Daniel 6-2, 7-5 in a final between two tournament outsiders. World number 82 Tabilo bagged his maiden ATP title, which he says will deliver an injection of confidence heading into the Australian Open after two years of pain and frustration. The 26-year-old's only other final appearance came on clay at the Cordoba Open in 2022, before his career path took a downward spiral.

"It honestly feels surreal right now. I'm so happy, very emotional, I never thought we were going to be here in the final," he said.

"Last year was tough, even two years ago we made the final of Cordoba and from there we were going up and we had a little almost stress fracture on my arm.

"We had to stop that year and work back up. It's been a lot of injuries... it's been a crazy ride."

Canadian-born left-hander Tabilo played with greater power than his Japanese opponent, sending down 10 aces while also pulling off three breaks of serve to none.