Memories of final failings in 500-level tournaments swirled around Stefanos Tsitsipas’ head.
Carrying an ignominious 0-11 career record in 500 finals onto court in Dubai tonight, Tsitsipas blistered his forehand, battered final baggage and broke through with the biggest outdoor hard-court crown of his career.
A committed Tsitsipas saved all seven break points he faced fending off Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 6-3 to capture his 12th Tour-level title and first 500-level championship in a victory that vaults him back into the Top 10.
“This is something I was fighting for for a long time,” Tsitsipas said. “It’s great that it happened here in Dubai.
“My game kind of clicked and things kind of worked very well from the beginning. I had some crazy fights out here so it’s a big relief that I’m able to hold that trophy finally after the third attempt. I’m happy it’s the first time I accomplished it.”orld No. 21 Auger-Aliassime, who beat Tsitsipas to win his maiden ATP title at the 2022 Rotterdam, was bidding to become the first man to win three titles in 2025. The Canadian kept pushing, but Tsitsipas had all the answers today.
“I had a great week and I had a lot of fun,” Auger-Aliassime said. “Tonight wasn’t meant to be for me, but congrats to Stefanos and his team.
“We’ve known each other for a very long time. Tonight you played at a very high level. Hopefully, we’ll have more chances to play more finals in the future.”
In his first two Dubai finals, Tsitsipas lost to Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
Today, Tsitsipas won 35 of 42 first-serve points and broke the Canadian late in both sets beating Auger-Aliassime for the seventh time in 10 meetings. Tsitsipas will return to the Top 10 at No. 9 when the new ATP rankings are released on Monday.
“These are the things we are fighting for as professional tennis players,” Tsitsipas said. “To be owning a spot in the Top 10 is definitely one of the greatesting feelings a tennis player can experience.
“It comes with the hard work and sacrifices and all you have to endure as a tennis player. I’m really happy I’m in a position to celebrate right now.”
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