The Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2025, now an ATP 500 event, has drawn some of the biggest names in men’s tennis. It promises an intense week of competition in Doha. With top-ranked players and former champions vying for the prestigious Golden Falcon trophy, the tournament is set to deliver thrilling matchups and compelling storylines.
Alcaraz’s Tricky Doha Debut
Carlos Alcaraz is making his official debut at the Qatar Open. He previously played in Doha during the relocated Australian Open qualifiers in 2021. Now a multiple Grand Slam winner and world No. 2, Alcaraz will headline the event as the top seed.
However, his road to the title won’t be easy. The 21-year-old Spaniard faces former world No. 3 Marin Cilic in his opening match. If he advances, he could set up a highly anticipated semi-final clash with Novak Djokovic. This offers a chance to avenge his recent Australian Open quarterfinal defeat.
Djokovic’s 100th Title Bid
Two-time Qatar Open champion Novak Djokovic returns to Doha with a major milestone in sight. The 24-time Grand Slam winner is chasing his 100th career title. This feat has only been achieved by Jimmy Connors (109 titles) and Roger Federer (103).
Djokovic, who won in Doha in 2016 and 2017, will start his singles campaign against Italy’s Matteo Berrettini. Additionally, he has teamed up with Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco in the doubles event—Verdasco’s farewell tournament before retirement.
Former Champions Return
Several past winners are back in action, aiming to reclaim their titles:
- Daniil Medvedev (2023 champion) and Andrey Rublev (2020 champion) are among the top contenders. Both are currently ranked in the ATP top 10.
- Defending champion Karen Khachanov faces a tough first-round battle against Medvedev.
- Two-time winner Roberto Bautista Agut starts his campaign against Zizou Bergs.
Other strong contenders include second-seed Alex De Minaur, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Grigor Dimitrov, and Jack Draper. They are all looking to mount a serious title challenge.
Arab Players in the Spotlight
The tournament will also showcase rising Arab talent:
- Hady Habib (Lebanon), fresh from becoming the first Lebanese to qualify for a Grand Slam main draw, enters as a wildcard. He faces Christopher O’Connell.
- Abdullah Shelbayh (Jordan), the first Jordanian to achieve an ATP ranking, plays against Botic van de Zandschulp.
- Aziz Dougaz (Tunisia) meets Hungarian Fabian Marozsan.
- Mubarak Zayid (Qatar) will compete in the doubles alongside Spain’s Daniel Merida.
With a star-studded lineup, historic milestones at stake, and rising Arab players looking to make an impact, the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2025 is set to be an unforgettable tournament.
