In a gripping showdown at the Dubai Tennis Championships, Canada’s own Felix Auger-Aliassime triumphed over Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik with a score of 7-6(7), 6-7(4), 6-3 in the thrilling first round on Tuesday.
The tension escalated during a first-set tiebreak when Auger-Aliassime requested a video review due to a disruptive moment involving a ball boy. The exchange between the two competitors sparked some banter across the net, but Auger-Aliassime emerged victorious in the review, leading to a replay of the point.
Returning with flair, an irked Bublik executed an underhand serve on the replayed point, landing an ace and raising his arms in celebration, prompting a mixed reaction from the audience.
After clinching the first set thanks to a double fault from Bublik, the 24-year-old Montrealian cheekily gestured to the crowd, asking, “Where’s the noise now?” as he fed off the electrifying atmosphere.
Throughout the encounter, Auger-Aliassime recorded eight aces and five double faults, while Bublik powered through with 16 aces and seven double faults, showcasing their contrasting playing styles.
Now ranked world No. 21, Auger-Aliassime is set to face Portugal’s Nuno Borges in the upcoming second round, where he hopes to continue his impressive run.
The talented player has already secured two ATP titles this season and recently reached the semifinals in Doha, Qatar, underlining his exceptional form.
