Stefanos Tsitsipas edged out Matteo Berrettini 7-6(5), 1-6, 6-4 on February 27, 2025, at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, reaching the semi-finals for the first time since Gstaad back last year. The match was characterized by intense rallies and pivotal moments, showcasing Tsitsipas's ability to bounce back after losing the second set.
The Greek player, currently ranked No. 11, demonstrated resilience throughout the contest. The first set saw Tsitsipas fend off challenges to secure it convincingly, closing with a tie-break score of 7-6(5) after trading breaks of serve with Berrettini. The second set turned dramatically as Berrettini came alive, allowing him to equalize the match by winning it 6-1.
Returning with renewed focus, Tsitsipas capitalized on key opportunities, especially after recovering from 15-40 down at 4-4, breaking Berrettini’s serve to seize the final set 6-4. With this win, Tsitsipas extended his head-to-head record to four wins over five matches against Berrettini, who couldn’t replicate his previous dominance.
Following the match, Tsitsipas expressed optimism, stating, "It feels great to be back in the semi-finals after such time. I’m competing against great players, and I hope to maintain this level.” He now looks forward to competing against Tallon Griekspoor, who advanced after defeating Daniil Medvedev, the top seed of the tournament.
This win not only highlighted Tsitsipas’s talent but also brought him closer to re-entering the top 10 ATP rankings. Should he capture the title, it would mark his first championship victory since his triumph at the prestigious Monte-Carlo Masters last year.
During the tournament, Tsitsipas noted his appreciation for the opportunities to connect with diverse cultures, mentioning his recent experiences with traditional Emirati clothing, reflecting on how fashion allows for cultural exchange.
Tennis experts are analyzing Tsitsipas's performance closely as he continues his run at the Dubai ATP 500, where he has previously shown success. His matches leading up to the semi-finals also included notable wins against Russian Karen Khachanov and Lorenzo Sonego, each encounter reinforcing his status as one of the competition's top contenders.
With the final rounds on the horizon, Tsitsipas remains mentally prepared to face Griekspoor on the court, welcoming the challenge and ready to exhibit the skills required to overcome another formidable opponent. "Every match is different, and each victory builds the momentum I need as we head closer to the finals,” he remarked.
Fans are eagerly anticipating the semi-finals, where the energy will be palpable, and Tsitsipas will aim for not only victory but also the opportunity to showcase his growth as a player on the ATP circuit.
Overall, Tsitsipas’s performance at the Dubai ATP 500 is reflective of his hard work and determination to return to championship form. His eyes are now firmly set on capturing not just another win, but also fulfilling his aspiration of reclaiming his place among the world’s top tennis players.