Gavin Manders now holds the record for the most titles at the Deloitte Open Tennis tournament after defeating Sebastian Pukk to win his tenth crown at Pomander Gate Tennis & Pickleball Club on Saturday.

The victory pulls the 39-year-old clear of Ricky Mallory after Manders equalled the record of nine wins in 2019 when he saw off Jenson Bascome in the title decider.

In a pulsating final pitting experience against youth, Manders held off a strong challenge from the youngster Pukk to triumph 6-7, 6-4, 10-7. Minutes later, he combined forces with his former Davis Cup team-mate David Thomas to win the men’s doubles, 6-3, 6-1, over Tobiah Goodchild and Zachary McGuire.

“Winning my tenth Deloitte Open title is more than just another trophy, it’s a reflection of the journey, the sacrifices and the love I have for the sport,’’ Manders told The Royal Gazette.

“I’m still here because I want to inspire the next generation to believe in themselves and chase greatness with purpose. Having my children courtside means everything and I hope seeing me compete plants seeds of belief in them, not just in sport, but in life.

“This journey has been a blessing and I’m truly grateful to still be doing what I love and enjoying every moment along the way. The mission continues.”

Manders, who played a role in the mentorship of Pukk and McGuire, believes the two are great prospects in the sport.

“Seb and Zach are the future as I’ve coached both of them for long periods early in their journey,” he said.

“They had youth and training on their side, and I have experience and heart on my side. That was the difference in the two matches I played against them.”

While he was anxious about facing such an illustrious opponent, Pukk was proud to have reached the final on the eve of his 18th birthday.

“I’m happy I made it this far and I wish I had gotten that second set,” Pukk said.

“I was nervous facing someone like Gavin Manders, but as the match went on I ended up realising that he’s getting up there in age, I can probably get him.”

Nadhira Durham came from a set down to overcome Alexcie Burrows, 4-6, 6-1, 14-12, in the women’s singles final. It was the second year in a row the 17-year-old was the top female in the tournament.

Ali Arouzi and Richard Daley triumphed in the men’s doubles 45 and over, with a 6-1, 6-2 win over brothers Earl and Erwin Leader. The women’s title for the same age category went to Sophie Campeau and Shonette Wilson.

Earlier on, Wilson had combined with Allison Towlson to defeat Caitlin Conyers and Durham 6-2, 7-5, in the women’s doubles final.

In finals played on Friday, Gregory Chambaz and Erika Bove teamed up to win the mixed doubles. The duo triumphed 6-4, 6-3 over Evan Heyliger and Durham.

Michael Toyer claimed victory in the men’s singles 45 and over after Kendall Cuffy retired hurt. Cuffy had won the first set 6-1 and was leading 4-2 in the second before he withdrew from the contest.

With only two entries recorded for the women’s 45 and over, Wilson took the honours with a 6-0, 6-2 win against Fiona Carruthers on May 31, the opening day of the tournament.

Deloitte has expressed its appreciation to all the participants for competing in the eight-day event.

“Deloitte thanks all for participating,” the sponsors said. “It has been a great week of tennis and we congratulate all the competitors.

“Bermuda has a rich history when it comes to tennis and Deloitte is proud to continue sponsoring and growing tennis across the island.”

The Deloitte pickleball tournament began at Pomander Gate on Sunday and lasts for a week.