Andrey Rublev captured the ATP 500 title at Doha for the second time on February 22, 2025, defeating Britain's Jack Draper in the final. The match saw Rublev, ranked 10th, demonstrating remarkable focus and resilience, particularly during the decisive third set, where he triumphed with scores of 7-5, 5-7, and 6-1.
Rublev, who hadn’t claimed a title since winning the Masters 1000 Madrid back in May 2024, returned to the winner’s circle after what he described as two challenging sets. "It’s incredible. It’s my first title I’ve won twice. I’m very happy," Rublev stated following his victory.
During the match, the initial set was tightly contested, particularly with both players holding serve early on. Rublev managed to break Draper at key moments, demonstrating the composure required to close out the first set. Draper, ranked 16th and aiming for his third career title, matched Rublev well throughout the game. Winning the second set was no small feat for Draper, who had to fend off multiple break points before eventually claiming victory and forcing the match to three sets.
Crucially, the third set showcased Rublev’s extraordinary mental fortitude. Despite dropping the second set, he remained composed. "When I lost the second set, I let it go and started to play more freely. I didn’t let frustration take over me," Rublev reflected, highlighting his mental shift during the match.
This win marks not only Rublev's 17th career title but also his first time successfully defending the same tournament, having previously won the Doha title back in 2020. The tournament was notable for its competitive field, having initially been led by upper-ranked players like Carlos Alcaraz, who was upset early, along with past world number one Novak Djokovic being eliminated as well.
With this title, Rublev moves up to 9th position in the ATP rankings, just behind Alex de Minaur and Novak Djokovic. Draper, on the other hand, benefits from his strong showing by achieving his career-best ranking at 12th, edging closer to the top 10.
Rublev's persistence through the match, particularly after being frustrated over losing the second set, showcased his adaptability on the court. He not only improved technically but also mentally, proving he could rise above the challenges he faced. "I think we were both very exhausted. We had been playing at high intensity, but I managed to gather my strength for the last set," he added after the match.
The Doha victory reinvigorates Rublev's momentum, as he prepares to compete again next week in Dubai, where he’ll seek to build on this success.
While Rublev celebrates this important milestone, Jack Draper can also take pride, reaching the final and breaking through to the rank of 12th. At only 23 years old, Draper remains optimistic about his potential to break the top 10, supported by this strong performance.