DUBAI: The stage is set for what promises to be a thrilling final at the 2025 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, featuring Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas and Canada's Felix Auger-Aliassime. Both players have demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the tournament, overcoming tough challenges to reach this pivotal match.
Tsitsipas, the World No. 11, advanced to the final for the third time in four years after defeating the Netherlands' Tallon Griekspoor with precision, winning 6-4, 6-4. His performance was solid, showcasing his improved composure on the court. “I’m extremely happy to play good tennis from beginning to end,” Tsitsipas remarked, emphasizing his focus and determination throughout the match. He ended the semifinal match swiftly, allowing him to rest before the final, which he'll take as his first outdoor hardcourt title match since 2023. Tsitsipas has finished as the runner-up twice at this event, losing to both Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, and he is eager to finally capture the title he has been chasing.
Conversely, Auger-Aliassime faced French qualifier Quentin Halys and pulled off a comeback victory, winning 5-7, 6-4, 6-3. This marked his sixth ATP 500 final appearance and his third final already this year, after previously winning titles in Adelaide and Montpellier. Auger-Aliassime reflected on his semifinal match, stating, “I don’t know how I pulled it through today,” underscoring the mental fortitude required to win his matches this week. He saved three set points during the initial set against Halys and maintained strong play to seize the victory. This win also solidified his status as the player with the most wins on the ATP Tour this season, boasting 16 victories so far.
The matchup between the two players will be intriguing, especially considering their past encounters. Tsitsipas leads the head-to-head record 6-3, but their most recent clash was at the ATP Masters 1000 in Paris last November, where Tsitsipas won. Auger-Aliassime is aware of his opponent’s strengths and noted the improvements he has seen from Tsitsipas over recent months, saying, “I’m not expecting the same type of Felix I’ve played before; I’m expecting something different.” With spirits high, both players are excited for the showdown.
Looking at their contrasting paths to the final, Tsitsipas has had to battle his way through challenging opponents including Lorenzo Sonego and Matteo Berrettini, showing remarkable grit, especially after playing several lengthy matches this week. “I played the tennis I deserved,” he stated, reinforcing his confidence heading to the final.
On the other hand, Auger-Aliassime’s week has been characterized by three-set thrillers, emphasizing his enduring stamina and mental strength. He admitted fatigue was creeping up following his matches, but he remains optimistic about his ability to perform well. “It’s about who’s going to be sharp when they need to, and win the important points,” he said. Both players will aim to use the momentum they have built throughout the tournament as they prepare to face off at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre.
With the match set for Saturday, March 1st, at 10 AM ET, excitement is brewing for this rematch. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely, analyzing each player's strategy and performance under pressure.
While Auger-Aliassime has proven himself capable of thriving under challenge, particularly during this grueling tournament, Tsitsipas’s experience and past successes against him could provide the necessary edge. The match promises to be not only a showcase of skill but also of determination and resilience. The final is expected to attract considerable viewership, highlighting the growing interest and passion surrounding tennis this year within the sporting community.
Auger-Aliassime aims to extend his current winning streak and claim another title, but Tsitsipas will be equally determined to secure his desired victory. Two talented athletes, one trophy, and the thrill of high-stakes competition all come together to make this final one to be remembered. Both players are undoubtedly eager to seize this opportunity and make their mark at the prestigious Dubai event.