Stefanos Tsitsipas bested Auger-Aliassime to claim his maiden ATP 500 title as he lifted the Dubai Tennis Championship on Saturday. The 26-year-old returns to Top 10 of the PIF ATP Rankings with 12th tour-level trophy.
The Greek registered a 6-3, 6-3 win against the Canadian to end his hoodoo of ATP 500 final. This is Tsitsipas’ first hard-court trophy since Los Cabos in 2023.
“There is nothing that ensured the win today, it was just pure fighting,” said Tsitsipas. “It’s a big relief that I’m able to hold that trophy after the third attempt. It’s something that I had in the back of my mind, and I’m happy to say I accomplished it. I had a great opponent on the other side of the net, I knew it was a difficult task. I’m just proud of the way I managed the pressure and was able to perform in those crucial moments.”
Tsitsipas shared his delight of returning to the top 10 after a long time.
“These are the things we are fighting for as professional tennis players,” added Tsitsipas, who will return to World No. 9 on Monday. “To be owning a spot in the Top 10 is definitely one of the greatest feelings a tennis player can experience. It comes with hard work and sacrifices, but I’m happy that I’m in a position where I can really celebrate.”
On the other hand, Auger Aliassime showered praise on Tsitsipas for playing at a high level and getting the win.
“Tonight wasn’t meant to be, but congrats to Stefanos and his team,” said Auger-Aliassime. “We’ve known each other a long time, but tonight you played at a very high level — I can say that for sure. I’ll push to get better and hopefully we’ll have more chances to play finals in the future.”
Tsitsipas dropped only two sets throughout the tournament and he would look to carry the good show.
