In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Carlos Alcaraz launched his Qatar Open title bid with a gritty 6-4, 7-6 (5) victory over Arthur Rinderknech. The top-ranked Spaniard saved two set points in the second set before clinching the tie-break, notching his 150th hard-court tour win at just 22 years old.
The Doha crowd witnessed Alcaraz’s mental fortitude as he turned the tide against a formidable opponent. ‘Arthur plays aggressively, making him unpredictable,’ Alcaraz said afterward. ‘I had to stay composed through the pressure points, and I’m thrilled with how I executed.’
Building on his 2024 campaign, Alcaraz eyes deeper progress than last year’s quarterfinal loss. His next hurdle is Valentin Royer, with possible showdowns against Khachanov and Sinner looming.
Elsewhere, Karen Khachanov defended his crown with a comeback win over Shintaro Mochizuki, 6-1, 3-6, 6-4, advancing to face Marton Fucsovics.
Andrey Rublev steadied his nerves to dispatch Jesper de Jong 6-4, 6-3. The Russian, who triumphed here in 2020, now meets Fabian Marozsan after the latter’s dominant 6-3, 6-1 upset of Ugo Humbert.
Stefanos Tsitsipas opened strongly against Moez Echargui (6-4, 6-4), earning a highly anticipated rematch with Daniil Medvedev, the 2023 titlist.
With top talents firing on all cylinders, the Qatar Open is shaping up for high-stakes drama under the desert lights.