(GCT) – Stefanos Tsitsipas ended nearly a year-long trophy drought by claiming the Dubai Championships title on Saturday, playing with a new “mystery” racket that has helped reignite his form.
The 26-year-old’s first ATP 500 title since Monte Carlo in April 2023 saw him return to the top 10 in the world rankings for the first time since May.
“These are the moments we strive for as professional tennis players,” said Tsitsipas, who climbed to world number nine after the latest rankings were released on Monday. “Being in the top 10 is one of the greatest feelings, and it comes with hard work and sacrifices. I’m happy to be in a position to celebrate.”
After reaching a career-high world number three in 2023, Tsitsipas experienced a slump, disappointing exits in the first rounds of his last two Grand Slams. His once-dominant all-court game lost its edge, and he began suffering losses to lower-ranked opponents. However, a change in racket equipment ahead of Dubai gave him the boost he needed, securing his 12th tour-level trophy.
The Greek played with a blacked-out racket, often used by players testing new gear, as he defeated Lorenzo Sonego, Karen Khachanov, Matteo Berrettini, and Tallon Griekspoor before overcoming Felix Auger-Aliassime in the final.
“Comfort is one thing the racket brings to my game,” Tsitsipas explained before the final. “That’s something I was aiming to add to my game. I’ve been getting some extra help from it. The balls and courts have changed over the last few years, so I’m just trying to adapt.”
Looking ahead to the hard-court tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami before the European claycourt season, Tsitsipas emphasized the crucial importance of seeking improvement.
“These changes are sometimes necessary. You don’t want to get stuck in the same pattern,” said Tsitsipas, a former French Open finalist. “It feels refreshing, and it adds enthusiasm to my daily work.”
Stefanos Tsitsipas Clinches His First ATP 500 Title!