The 2026 ATP Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, scheduled for February 23-28, will feature an elite assembly of tennis superstars headlined by defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas. The Greek sensation, who captured the 2025 title with a dominant performance culminating in victory over Félix Auger-Aliassime, returns to the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium determined to maintain his hardcourt supremacy.
Tsitsipas’s triumph last year marked a pivotal moment in his 2025 campaign, reinforcing his status as a formidable force on hard surfaces and his capacity to excel during critical matches. The two-time Grand Slam finalist will face formidable competition from Canadian powerhouse Auger-Aliassime, who arrives following one of his most successful seasons featuring three ATP Tour titles and a US Open semifinal appearance.
The tournament’s competitive depth extends to former champions including Daniil Medvedev, the 2023 titleholder and perpetual hardcourt threat currently ranked world number 12. The 2021 US Open winner brings strategic sophistication and extensive experience to the Dubai courts where he has previously demonstrated championship form.
Andrey Rublev, the 2022 Dubai champion, returns with his characteristically powerful game and competitive intensity. Ranked 14th globally, the Russian contender has consistently delivered strong performances throughout the ATP Tour season.
Tournament organizers have expressed enthusiasm about the exceptional player field. Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, noted: ‘With Stefanos returning as defending champion, Félix entering after an exceptional season, and former champions like Daniil and Andrey in the mix, fans can expect fantastic tennis.’
The roster further includes world number 10 Alexander Bublik, known for his unconventional and creative playing style, alongside British number one Jack Draper (world number 11) who achieved a breakthrough Masters 1000 victory at Indian Wells in 2025. Completing the confirmed participants is Olympic silver medalist Karen Khachanov (world number 17), who enjoyed a standout 2025 season with a runner-up finish at the Toronto Masters.
The women’s WTA 1000 tournament will precede the men’s event from February 15-21, featuring defending champion Mirra Andreeva, world number one Aryna Sabalenka, and other top-ranked players including Iga Świątek and Coco Gauff. Tickets for both tournaments are currently available, with pricing beginning at Dh65.