Stefanos Tsitsipas claimed his first ATP 500 title by defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 6-3 in the Dubai Championships final on Saturday.
Tsitsipas, ranked 11th, had previously lost all 11 finals he played in ATP 500 events, including two in Dubai in 2019 and 2020. However, he needed just under 90 minutes to secure his 12th career title and his first of the year.
“It’s a big relief that I’m able to hold that trophy after the third attempt,” Tsitsipas said, reflecting on his previous losses to Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic in the Dubai finals. “It’s something I had in the back of my mind, and I’m happy to say I accomplished it.”
The Greek player won the last four games of the first set and sealed the victory with an ace on his first match point.
Tsitsipas saved all seven break points he faced, improving his record to 7-3 against Auger-Aliassime. This win will also push Tsitsipas back into the top 10 for the first time since May.
No. 21-ranked Auger-Aliassime, who had already won in Adelaide and Montpellier this year, was aiming for a third victory in 2025.
