Marin Cilic has made history once again by capturing a Challenger title on grass at the age of 36 years and 8 months, setting a new standard for longevity in professional tennis. With his victory in Nottingham, Cilic now holds the distinction of being the oldest player ever to win a Challenger event on grass, adding another remarkable achievement to his enduring career.
This win also marks a national milestone, as Cilic becomes the first Croatian to claim a Challenger title on grass. Known for his powerful serve and fluid baseline game, he demonstrated that experience and resilience can still triumph on one of the sport’s most demanding surfaces.
Cilic’s path to the title was marked by composed, strategic play and an ability to handle pressure in crucial moments. His performance in Nottingham not only underscores his talent but also his continued hunger for competition, despite already enjoying an illustrious career that includes a Grand Slam crown and multiple ATP titles.
In a sport that often sees its veterans make graceful exits, Cilic has found new energy, showing that with determination and smart adjustments, the fire to win can burn long past the supposed prime.