In a thrilling finale at the ATP Challenger in Pau, France, India’s N. Sriram Balaji and Austria’s Neil Oberleitner dominated the men’s doubles draw to secure their third title of the season. The top-seeded Indo-Austrian pair outlasted second seeds Jacob Paul of Switzerland and Matej Vosel of Czech Republic in a gripping 77-minute encounter, winning 6-1, 3-6, [13-11] in the super tie-break.
The duo wasted no time asserting control in the opening set, breaking serve multiple times with aggressive returns and sharp net play to race to a 6-1 lead. Momentum shifted in the second set as Paul and Vosel fought back from 3-3 parity, capitalizing on key moments to force a decider.
Tension peaked in the super tie-break. Balaji and Oberleitner surged to a 4-1 advantage, only for their opponents to claw back and snag a match point at 10-9. Composed under pressure, the top seeds saved the point and converted their third opportunity to clinch the trophy.
This victory marks the pair’s third Challenger crown since partnering in 2024, following triumphs in Nonthaburi 2 (Bangkok) and Bahrain Open (Manama). For Balaji, it’s his 16th Challenger doubles title, solidifying his status as one of India’s premier doubles specialists. He represented the country at the 2024 Paris Olympics alongside Rohan Bopanna, though they exited early.
Their path to the title was flawless. In the semifinals, they edged past American Martin de Bruin and Czech Michael Vrbensky 7-5, 7-6(1). Earlier rounds saw comfortable wins over unseeded foes. With three titles already this season, Balaji and Oberleitner are primed for more success on the international circuit, showcasing relentless form and unbreakable synergy.