Four Argentine players have advanced to the final eight of the AAT Challenger Santander tournament in Santa Fe, demonstrating the country’s strong presence in the competition.  This is a significant milestone as the event continues to boost the local tennis scene and economy in preparation for the South American Games, which will be held in Rosario, Rafaela, and Santa Fe Capital next year.

The competition has been teeming with activity, with noteworthy performances by Argentine athletes.  Santiago Rodriguez Taverna, also known as “El Duke,” advanced to the quarterfinals with a gritty victory over Germany’s John Sperle, 7-6 (7-6), 6-2.  This is Taverna’s fifth quarterfinal participation in 2025, and his third on home soil, following his title win earlier this year in Porto Alegre, Brazil.  Taverna expressed satisfaction with his performance and resilience during the match, particularly after saving four set points in the first set tiebreak.

Taverna’s victory ensures that Argentina will have at least one semifinalist, with the forthcoming quarterfinals featuring him and fellow countryman Lautaro Midón.  Midón, who defeated Facundo Bagnis 7-5, 6-4, has advanced to the quarterfinals of this tournament for the second consecutive year.  At only 20 years old, Midón is having a breakout season, highlighted by victories in Luján and Tucumán, as well as multiple quarterfinal appearances around South America.  His recent performance has moved him into the top 300 of the ATP rankings for the first time, a feat he is pleased of.

Andrea Collarini takes against Hernán Casanova in another all-Argentine semifinal match.  Collarini, the reigning Santa Fe champion, defeated Gonzalo Villanueva 6-4, 6-3, and expressed excitement about returning to the competition.  Casanova of Lomas de Zamora advanced by defeating Thailand’s Maximus Jones 6-3, 6-2.  Federico Jourdan, a local footballer, came to support Casanova and watch the tennis play.

The quarterfinal schedule contains fascinating matchups: the seasoned Facundo Bagnis, a former Davis Cup player who was formerly ranked 55th in the world, will face the youthful and rising Midón.  Meanwhile, Collarini and Villanueva will compete for a spot in the semi-finals.  Rodriguez Taverna will attempt to extend his run against Sperle, while Casanova hopes to move farther against Jones.

 With four Argentines remaining in contention, the tournament promises exciting tennis and continued national pride as players compete for the trophy on their home turf.