Sebastian Korda defeated Tommy Paul 6-4, 6-3 in the Delray Beach Open final.
On a windy evening in Delray Beach, Florida, Korda picked up his third career title.
It was his first triumph since August 2024, as the highly-rated American finally returned to the winner’s circle.
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Korda has struggled with injuries over the last few years, derailing his charge towards the ATP top 10.
During his on-court interview, the world number 50 reflected on those challenges and shared his one wish for the future.
Sebastian Korda hopes for ‘good health’ after injury woes
The 25-year-old was visibly emotional after the match, revealing what the win meant to him.
“A lot, I’ve been through some stuff the last couple of months, years,” said Korda.
“I’ve lost a lot of finals, now to get one here in Delray, where I made my first ATP final, so it’s kind of like a full circle [moment], so I’m just happy.
Sebastian Korda’s record in ATP finals
| Final | Tier | Surface | Result | Opponent | Score |
| 2021 Delray Beach Open | ATP 250 | Hard | LOSS | Hubert Hurkacz | 3-6, 3-6 |
| 2021 Emilia-Romagna Open | ATP 250 | Clay | WIN | Marco Cecchinato | 6-2, 6-4 |
| 2022 Gijon Open | ATP 250 | Hard (i) | LOSS | Andrey Rublev | 2-6, 3-6 |
| 2022 European Open | ATP 250 | Hard (i) | LOSS | Felix Auger-Aliassime | 3-6, 4-6 |
| 2023 Adelaide International 1 | ATP 250 | Hard | LOSS | Novak Djokovic | 7-6, 6-7, 4-6 |
| 2023 Astana Open | ATP 250 | Hard (i) | LOSS | Adrian Mannarino | 6-4, 3-6, 2-6 |
| 2024 Libema Open | ATP 250 | Grass | LOSS | Alex de Minaur | 2-6, 4-6 |
| 2024 Washington Open | ATP 500 | Hard | WIN | Flavio Cobolli | 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 |
| 2025 Adelaide International | ATP 250 | Hard | LOSS | Felix Auger-Aliassime | 3-6, 6-3, 1-6 |
| 2026 Delray Beach Open | ATP 250 | Hard | WIN | Tommy Paul | 6-4, 6-3 |
“What’s to come?
“Just hoping for some good health, that’s all I ask for.”
Korda also commented on the conditions in Delray Beach.
“It was tricky, we were both struggling out there, it was super windy,” he said.
“Just trying to put the ball in the court, I was born and raised in Florida, so I’m used to the wind a little bit, but this was extreme, for sure.”
The weather troubled both players, but it was Korda who adapted best, winning the final in straight sets.
Tommy Paul congratulates Sebastian Korda and thanks ‘Founding Fathers’
Gracious in defeat, Paul shared some kind words during his runner-up speech.
“First, I want to congratulate Sebi [Korda] and his team. I know the hard work you guys put in, and some of the setbacks you’ve had,” he said.
“So I’m really happy to see you play this level of tennis again, and I’m sure you’re going to have a great year ahead of you.”
Paul went on to thank the staff and his passionate fans.
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“I’d like to thank the ballkids and the volunteers, you guys make it amazing for us, this tournament has always been fun…” he said.
“Obviously, I’m close to home, so it’s nice to play in front of friends.
“I’ve also got to thank my Founding Fathers over there; they came out every match, no matter what, and definitely brought the energy, so thank you guys.”
A group of Paul’s fans dressed as the Founding Fathers have been in fine voice all week, supporting him in Delray Beach.
Sebastian Korda’s post-match speech in full
Korda appreciated Paul’s kind words and congratulated him on a strong week in Florida.
“First off, I want to congratulate Tommy [Paul] on a great week. I wish you all the best for the rest of the year, incredible hard work, and thank you for the kind words. I really appreciate it,” he said.
“To Tommy’s team as well, I know a part of you guys are missing, but you guys are always amazing and incredibly positive and hard working, so I wish you the best of luck for the rest of the year and onwards as well.”
He thanked the fans, his team, and the tournament organisers before signing off.
“I’d like to thank the Baron family. Without them, five years ago, I wouldn’t have made my first ATP final. They gave me a wild card, so always very appreciative of you guys.
“The city of Delray Beach, everyone, all the ball kids, the chair umpires, the volunteers, without you guys, this event wouldn’t be possible.
“Lastly, I want to thank my team over there, my whole family, my fiancée, Ryan, John, you guys are incredibly supportive of me, a lot of hard work these last couple of weeks, without you guys, I wouldn’t be standing here, for sure, today.
“To the fans, thank you guys for coming out, for supporting, some long nights, you guys were awesome, it’s always a pleasure here, hopefully see you guys soon, thank you.”
It’s been a great week for Korda, but what does it mean in the wider context of his season?
Well, he’ll jump 10 places in the rankings, up to 40th.
Whether he can carry that momentum forward remains to be seen.
Korda is scheduled to return to action at next week’s Mexican Open in Acapulco.
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