In a remarkable display of mental fortitude and technical precision, Italy’s Ludovico Addabbo secured his maiden professional victory at the Aroeira Challenge, the inaugural event of the 2025-26 MENA Golf Tour season. The 27-year-old, who began the tournament ranked 1,909th globally, demonstrated championship composure throughout the competition held at PGA Aroeira near Lisbon.
Addabbo’s triumph was built upon three consistently brilliant rounds: an opening 66, followed by 67, and culminating in a spectacular final-round 65. His 18-under-par total of 198 secured a decisive three-stroke victory over Portuguese favorite Pedro Figueiredo, earning him the $18,000 top prize from the $100,000 purse.
The Italian’s victory was particularly impressive given the pressure of entering the final round with a one-shot lead. He immediately established control with birdies on the second and third holes, effectively neutralizing any early tension. His performance peaked on the 17th hole with a stunning chip-in birdie that virtually sealed his breakthrough win.
“I’m incredibly happy,” Addabbo expressed after being celebrated by fellow players on the 18th green. “I anticipated more nerves, but maintaining presence throughout the round proved crucial. I deliberately avoided leaderboard checks until the 17th to prevent unnecessary pressure.”
Local contender Figueiredo thrilled home crowds with a dramatic eagle on the 17th from the rough, securing solo second place with a 15-under total. Scotland’s Sebastian Sandin, who shared the first-round lead with Addabbo, saw his challenge diminish with three bogeys in the final four holes, finishing third at 13-under.
Tour commissioner Keith Waters praised Addabbo’s performance: “Ludovico delivered an outstanding round and handled pressure like a true champion. The celebration with his Italian peers on the final green perfectly captured the MENA Tour’s spirit.”
The tournament saw 46 players finish under par, with Q School winner Chris Wood tying for seventh at 10-under. The tour continues in Portugal with the Rolear Algarve Classic at Amendoeira Course from December 2-4, before moving to Egypt and Morocco in the new year.