Stefanos Tsitsipas has emphatically announced his return to form, capturing the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships title with a commanding 6-3, 6-3 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime. The win marks a significant milestone for the Greek star, ending his long-awaited quest for a first ATP 500 title and signaling a resurgence after a period of relative struggles.
A Title Drought Ends in Dubai
The victory in Dubai is Tsitsipas’ first title in almost a year, breaking a finals hoodoo that had seen him fall short in 11 previous ATP 500 finals. This win propels him back into the Top 10 of the ATP rankings, a testament to his resilience and the “big change” he has implemented in his approach to the game. After losing consecutive Dubai finals in 2019 to Roger Federer and 2020 to Novak Djokovic, Tsitsipas finally made amends.
“There is nothing that ensured the win today, it was just pure fighting,” said Tsitsipas after the match. His determination was evident as he navigated a tricky start to the final, saving break points early in the first set before seizing control of the match.
Coaching and Equipment Changes Spark Resurgence
Several factors appear to have contributed to Tsitsipas’ improved form. Most notably, a significant change in his coaching setup. In August 2024, he parted ways with his father, Apostolos Tsitsipas, who had been a constant presence in his player box throughout his career. He is now working with coach Dimitris Chatzinikolaou.
“At the end of 2024, Tsitsipas finally got rid of his father as a coach and seemed ready to make changes. 2025 will be a decisive year for him,” one source noted.
In addition to the coaching change, Tsitsipas has also made adjustments to his equipment, switching to a new racket with a 98 square-inch head and 18×20 string pattern. These technical tweaks seem to have contributed to his improved performance and confidence on the court.
Embracing Change for a Fresh Start
Tsitsipas himself has spoken about the need to “reinvent” himself and seek “constant improvements.” After an indifferent 2024, where he briefly dropped out of the top 10, the Greek star is determined to recapture his best form and challenge for the biggest titles in the sport.
Dominating Performance Against Auger-Aliassime
In the Dubai final, Tsitsipas displayed a level of focus and intensity that had been missing at times in recent months. He served well, moved fluidly, and dictated play from the baseline, putting Auger-Aliassime under constant pressure.
Key Moments in the Final
- Saving Early Break Points: Tsitsipas faced double break point serving at 1-2 in the first set but managed to hold, a crucial moment that prevented Auger-Aliassime from gaining an early advantage.
- Seizing Control: After the early scare, Tsitsipas broke Auger-Aliassime’s serve to take a 4-3 lead in the first set, then broke again to close out the set.
- Maintaining Pressure: Tsitsipas secured the only break of the second set to lead 5-3, then served out the match with confidence.
Return to the Top 10 and Future Prospects
The Dubai title not only marks Tsitsipas’ first ATP 500 victory but also propels him back into the top 10 of the world rankings. He is projected to rise from No. 11 to No. 9 when the new rankings are released.
Grand Slam Aspirations
With the monkey off his back regarding the ATP 500 title, Tsitsipas will now be looking to translate his improved form into success at the Grand Slam level. He has reached two Grand Slam finals in the past, at the 2021 French Open and the 2023 Australian Open, but is yet to capture a major title.
“Now the only category of tour-level title missing from Tsitsipas’ resume is a Grand Slam, and he’s come very close before,” wrote one tennis analyst.
A Positive Sign for 2025
Tsitsipas’ victory in Dubai is a positive sign for his prospects in 2025. With a new coach, a new racket, and a renewed sense of purpose, he appears to be well-equipped to challenge for the biggest titles in the sport.
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