Marin Cilic is embracing the challenge

On the ATP Challenger Tour, the spotlight often shines on ambitious young talents eager to ascend the ranks of world tennis. However, it's also a battleground where seasoned veterans, aiming for a resurgence, cross paths with these rising stars. Such was the case recently when former Grand Slam champion Marin Cilic made a remarkable return to form.

A Record-Breaking Comeback

In late March 2025, Cilic clinched the title at the Girona (Spain) Challenger, and a new record in the process. An astounding 17 years and ten months separated this victory from his previous Challenger-level triumph in Rijeka, Croatia, in 2007. This gap surpassed the previous record held by Andy Murray, who had 17 years and eight months between Challenger titles.​

Early Success and Overcoming Adversity

At just 18, Cilic secured his second ATP Challenger title in Istria, marking the beginning of an illustrious career. He ascended to a career-high ranking of World No. 3 and amassed 21 tour-level titles, including a crowning achievement at the 2014 US Open.​

Cilic's journey hasn't been without its challenges. A year ago, he found himself ranked 1,056^th, having participated in only two tournaments in 2023. A knee surgery in May 2024 further sidelined him. Yet, his determination saw him climb back to No. 117 in the world.​ In Hangzhou last September, Cilic became the lowest-ranked player in ATP history to win a tournament title, at No. 777.

Dominant Run in Girona

During his Girona campaign last month, Cilic showcased his resilience. Notably, he overcame top seed Marton Fucsovics in a grueling second-round match lasting nearly three hours, and dispatched former world No. 10 Pablo Carreño Busta in the quarterfinals. In the final, Cilic secured a straight-sets victory over Denmark's Elmer Moller.

“It was a lot of fun playing in a tournament like this—in such a beautiful city with a crowd that made me feel at home,” Cilic said after the championship match. “I thank the organization for the excellent work and hope to return in the future.”

The 36-year-old, who was born in Bosnia and Herzegovina and began playing at age seven with his cousin Tanja, acknowledged his current position outside the Top 100 and Top 50 rankings, emphasizing the necessity to adapt his approach. Cilic stated that he can no longer select tournaments at will and must focus on diligent effort, returning to Challenger events to rebuild his standing. The Medugorje native highlighted the importance of adopting the right mindset, maintaining motivation to compete against younger players, and striving for strong performances.

A Swift Turn of Events

The following week, Cilic entered the inaugural Open Menorca (Spain) ATP Challenger 100 at Club Tennis Ciutadella. Anticipation was high, but he faced a surprising first-round exit against 21-year-old Peruvian Ignacio Buse, who delivered a commanding 6-2, 6-1 performance.

Reflecting on his recent matches, Cilic noted, “In Menorca, the conditions were different compared to Girona. We had some rain, and it was slower. It was not easy to play.”

This week, during the Open Comunidad de Madrid, Cilic seized the opportunity for a swift rematch against Buse. In the Spanish capital, he emerged victorious, winning 6-3, 7-5 on Tuesday.

“My level of play is high and definitely strong for the Challenger Tour,” he said. “This week is special for many players, as it's the last opportunity to qualify for the main draw of Roland Garros. There will be a lot of passion and excitement on the court. I'm expecting some tough matches.”

Following his victory on Thursday over Marco Trungelliti, Cilic will get another tough match: he faces the surging 20-year-old Vilius Gaubas—who won Menorca.