Stefanos Tsitsipas entered last year'sATP 500 event in Dubai with three wins in 2025. The Greek raised his level at one of his favorite tournaments, beating five rivals and clinching his 12th ATP title, the first at the ATP 500 level from 12 finals!
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Tsitsipas intriguedthe tennis world by wielding a blacked-out Babolat Pure Aero racquet, typically used by Carlos Alcaraz,despite his ongoing contract with Wilson!The switch, first noticed during the tournament, sparked speculation about Stefanostesting a rival brands equipment, potentially signaling a future sponsorship shift.
Tennis fans debated whether this move violated the Greeks Wilson contract, with some suggesting the black paint and Babolat features - like bumpers visible in close-ups - indicated a discreet trial. Whatever happens, Tsitsipas needed a drastic change!
The former Major finalist lost the ground and stepped away from the top-10, losing his sharpness and precision in comparison to the rivals from the top. Stefanos could not reach the ATP final between April 2024 and last week, experiencing a couple of tough losses during that poor streak.
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Tsitsipas presented more efficient tennis in Dubai with his new racquet, heading for his shots and enduring the baseline exchanges. He ousted Lorenzo Sonego, Karen Khachanov, Matteo Berrettini and Tallon Griekspoor en route to a much-needed final.
It was not a steady ride, but Stefanos endured all the challenging moments and remained on the title course. He played well against Griekspoor and presented even more efficient tennis against Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Greek beat the Canadian 6-3, 6-3 in an hour and 28 minutes.
Thus, he extended his great run against Felix and lifted a long-awaited trophy from his third Dubai Open final. Stefanos will seek more deep runs in Indian Wells and Miami before his favorite event in Monte Carlo, where he usually performs at his best.
