Brilliant Andrey Rublev downs Draper in three-set battle to secure Qatar Open crown

Andrey Rublev secured an emotional victory over Jack Draper, winning 7-5, 5-7, 6-1 to claim his first title of the season at the Qatar Open. The 27-year-old Russian now holds 17 career titles, including six at ATP 500 level, and extended his head-to-head dominance over the Brit to 4-0.

The World No. 10 has now put behind months of inconsistency, having won just four of his previous 11 matches before arriving in Doha. This week, Rublev rediscovered his best form, taking down opponents like Felix Auger-Aliassime and Alex de Minaur on his way to the trophy.

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First Set

Rublev’s dominance on serve had been a key factor throughout the week, and it was no different in the final. The Russian won 94% of points behind his first serve and 78% on his second, giving Draper little room to exploit.

The Brit kept pace with his opponent for much of the set, with neither facing break points until 6-5. Serving to force a tiebreak, Draper faltered at the worst possible moment, allowing Rublev to break and take the set 7-5.

Andrey Rublev at 2024 Canadian Open.

Second Set

Both players stepped up their aggression in the second set, looking for early break opportunities. Rublev saved one break point, while Draper defended two. Once again, they remained level until 5-5, when Rublev unexpectedly dropped serve for the first time in the match.

Draper capitalized on the opportunity, closing out the set 7-5 and forcing a decider. The Brit had the edge in key stats, winning 71% of first-serve points compared to Rublev’s 65%, and dominating with 64% second-serve points won, against the Russian’s 50%.

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Third Set

The final set remained tight until Rublev broke in the second game, seizing control of the match. Leading 3-0, the Russian’s confidence soared, while Draper appeared increasingly deflated. The British No. 1 struggled on serve and conceded two consecutive breaks, allowing Rublev to storm ahead 5-0.

Draper managed to hold serve once to avoid a bagel, but Rublev closed out the match comfortably, sealing a 7-5, 5-7, 6-1 victory. With this title, the Russian rises to World No. 9 on Monday, marking a significant step in his return to form.

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