Montreal's Felix Auger-Aliassime has made headlines as he reaches the final of the Dubai Tennis Championships after displaying remarkable resilience against French qualifier Quentin Halys. The semifinals, held on February 28, 2025, saw Auger-Aliassime come back from dropping the first set to secure the match with scores of 5-7, 6-4, 6-3.
The match started with Auger-Aliassime struggling, as he faced three set points before Halys clinched the first set. Yet, the 24-year-old Canadian did not let the setback deter him. He rebounded impressively, taking control of the second set. Key moments included breaking Halys's serve at pivotal times, contributing to his four break-point conversions among seven opportunities throughout the match.
Auger-Aliassime's mastery of his serve was on display, as he fired off 10 aces compared to Halys's five. "I don’t know how I pulled it through today," Auger-Aliassime remarked post-match. "It was just about having positive self-talk. When we’re having a tough day, just to have a pep talk and stay positive. I did well and dug deep physically, so I’m really happy it paid off today.”
This win is not only significant for Auger-Aliassime because it brings him closer to his third title of the season but also marks his 16th victory of 2025, the most by any player on the ATP Tour so far. “It’s never easy, coming from Doha you feel a bit tired,” he admitted, referencing his recent semifinal loss to Russia's Andrey Rublev at the Qatar Open. “But it’s the same challenge for everyone; it’s about who’s going to be sharp when they need to, and win the important points.”
Auger-Aliassime's performance has set the stage for another thrilling showdown as he prepares to face the formidable 11th-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece, who defeated Tallon Griekspoor 6-4, 6-4 to secure his spot in the final. Their encounter at the Dubai Tennis Championships promises to be significant, considering Tsitsipas holds the upper hand historically, leading their head-to-head record 6-3. The pair’s most recent match was at the 2023 Paris Masters, where Tsitsipas emerged victorious.
Yet, Auger-Aliassime is not deterred by the challenge. He previously conquered Tsitsipas back during the 2022 Rotterdam Open final, which was his first ATP Tour singles title. Auger-Aliassime’s unwavering confidence, showcased through his battles on the court this season, will be pivotal as he approaches the final. With both players having high stakes, the upcoming final on March 1, 2025, is expected to deliver intense competition.
Auger-Aliassime’s ability to adapt and overcome adversity will undoubtedly play to his favor as he aims to secure yet another title, proving to himself and the world what he is capable of achieving. The excitement builds as fans eagerly await the clash between the two talented competitors, each with their own ambitions for the season.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published February 28, 2025.