As we kick off 2025, the tennis world turns its gaze to Doha, where the Qatar ExxonMobil Open has unfolded with drama and surprises. This year, the tournament has seen more than its fair share of upsets, with the likes of Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz making early exits, adding to the exhilarating atmosphere. The stakes are high with the tournament’s upgraded ATP 500 status, and even higher for Jack Draper and Andrey Rublev, who are set to battle in the finals for the coveted title and a substantial prize.
Highlighting the significant elevation in the event’s status, the prize pool has seen a remarkable 97.73% increase from the previous year, totaling a stunning $2,760,000. The victor of the competition will pocket $516,165, a significant 143.13% surge compared to Karen Khachanov’s winnings in 2024. The runner-up, too, will reap a substantial reward, walking away with $277,715, symbolizing a 124.25% rise from last year’s second-place prize.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the prize money for the singles category:
– Champion: $516,165
– Runner-up: $277,715
– Semi-finals: $148,005
– Quarterfinals: $75,615
– Round 16: $40,365
– Round 32: $21,525
Regardless of who triumphs in the finals, both Draper and Rublev have already earned themselves $563,225 and 680 ranking points. But only one will get to hoist the trophy and pocket the $516,165.
The journey to the finals has been an arduous one for both players. World No. 10, Rublev, overcame challenges from Alexander Bublik and Nuno Borges in the initial rounds, before edging out Alex de Minaur in a tight contest. He showed resilience in his tough semi-final against Félix Auger-Aliassime, eventually securing his spot in the finals after a nearly three-hour-long battle. Having been a finalist in 2018 and a champion in 2020, Rublev is no stranger to the pressures of the Doha court and seeks to reclaim his title.
On the contrary, the tournament’s final is a new frontier for World No. 16, Jack Draper. After defeating Alexei Popyrin and Christopher O’Connell, Draper mounted a remarkable comeback against Matteo Berettini in the third round. He then faced Jiri Lehecka in a nail-biting semi-final, ultimately triumphing after a tense three-set match. With the head-to-head record favoring Rublev 3-0, Draper faces a formidable challenge.
While the monetary rewards are substantial, this match is about more than just the prize money. For Rublev, it offers a chance to secure his 16th ATP title and reaffirm his status as a top-tier player. For Draper, it’s an opportunity to claim his long-awaited first ATP title. Rublev may have the advantage on paper, but tennis matches are not won on paper. They are won on the court, under the spotlight, where unpredictability reigns.
As anticipation builds, the only question that remains is: Will Rublev rise to the occasion and reclaim his title, or will Draper defy the odds and secure his first ATP victory at the Qatar Open? As the tennis world watches with bated breath, only time will tell.
