In a thrilling all-American showdown at the 2026 Delray Beach Open, Sebastian Korda lifted the trophy with a composed and commanding performance against countryman Tommy Paul, securing a 6-4, 6-3 victory in Sunday’s final.
Korda endured the extreme wind – with gusts up to 30 mph at times – as well as a 0-40 deficit when serving for the match to endure and take home the tournament title.
For Korda, the win isn’t just another title — it’s a homecoming triumph. Born and raised in Bradenton, Florida, the 25-year-old captured his third ATP Tour title at the very event where he first made a name for himself years ago, finally closing a circle that began with a runner-up finish in Delray Beach back in 2021.
A Display of Resilience and Precision
From the outset, Korda dictated the pace of the match with aggressive baseline play and smart shot-making. In the blustery afternoon conditions that challenged both players, he seized the crucial break in the opening set at 5-4 — a move that ultimately set the tone for the rest of the final.
Even in the championship game, Korda’s resilience showed. Serving for the title and facing a 0-40 deficit, he dug deep and saved multiple break points before clinching the match after one hour and 22 minutes of hard-fought tennis.
“This means a lot,” Korda said after the match, reflecting on both his journey and his triumph. “I’ve been through some stuff the past months and years… to get one here in Delray — this is where I made my first ATP final — so it’s like a full-circle day.”
A Road Paved With Tough Foes
Korda’s path to the Delray Beach title was far from easy. Along the way he ousted three of the tournament’s top five seeds, including a quarterfinal victory over second seed Casper Ruud and a clinical semifinal performance against Italy’s Flavio Cobolli.
While Paul — a seasoned competitor aiming for his fifth career ATP crown — showcased his own grit and veteran savvy throughout the week, ultimately Korda’s shot selection and composure in key moments proved decisive on Sunday.
What This Win Means for Korda
This title doesn’t just add another trophy to Korda’s shelf — it gives his confidence a major boost as the season unfolds. The victory is projected to lift him back into the Top 40 of the ATP rankings, reflecting his return to consistent form after battling injuries last year, including a stress fracture that sidelined him for several months.
More than that, it’s a reminder of Korda’s growth as a competitor — a player capable of harnessing his innate talent, stylish ball-striking, and mental fortitude to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
To watch and listen to Korda’s full post-match press conference, click here: Sebi Korda Press Conference After Delray Beach Open Win via @YouTube
To watch and listen to Paul’s full post-match press conference, click here: Tommy Paul Press Conference After Delray Beach Open Final Loss via @YouTube
Looking Ahead
The all-American final in Delray Beach underscored the depth and rising promise of U.S. men’s tennis. With young guns and established stars alike vying for prominence, Korda’s victory adds fresh momentum and narrative to the 2026 ATP season.
For fans of the sport — and especially for those who’ve followed his journey — this win is a long-awaited affirmation: Sebastian Korda is back, and he’s ready to be a force on hard courts this season.
