Andrey Rublev wins Qatar Open, solidifies ATP top 10 spot

Andrey Rublev beat Jack Draper to win the Qatar Open in Doha on Saturday, edging out the Brit 7-5, 5-7, 6-1 to claim his 17th career title.

The Russian played clean tennis over the course of the two-hour, four-minute match to claim his first-ever repeat title, having lifted the Qatar Open trophy in 2020 as well.

Tennis betting sites had priced the match slightly in Draper’s favour heading into the final.

However, Rublev claimed the opening set thanks to a strong first serve, behind which he lost only one point in the first set.

Draper, who had come back from a set down in his past two matches in Doha, fought back to win a gritty second set.

But the week’s matches had taken a toll on the soon-to-be world No.12, with the 23-year-old fizzling in a one-sided deciding set.

“It feels amazing,” Rublev said in his victory speech.

“It’s my first ever title that I won twice. I’m really happy.

“I think both of us were really tired after two three-set matches that finished late.

“We were exhausted and it was difficult, but somehow we were able to play at a good level.

“When I lost the second set, I let it go and started to play more freely.

“I played at a good level.

“In some moments, I was really good mentally and didn’t let frustration get over me.

“As soon as I was frustrated, I was able to restart again and I was able to play at the same intensity.

“That’s the most important thing.”

Rublev’s title is his first since August 2024 and means he solidifies his position in the top 10 of the ATP rankings, having slipped down to 10th heading into the Qatar Open.

Despite the loss, leading bookmakers are encouraged by Draper’s performance and have shortened his odds to win Wimbledon this year.

Draper now pays just $15 at Marantelli Bet to claim his home Grand Slam, putting him on the fourth line of betting ahead of the likes of world No.2 Alexander Zverev ($17).

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