Emma Raducanu Set for Blockbuster Dubai Debut Against Maria Sakkari

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Picture caption: Second from the left: Sorana Cîrstea, a two-time WTA Tour singles champion; Anna Kalinskaya, World No. 18; Salah Tahlak, Tournament Director and Deputy Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free; Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free and Chairman of the tournament’s Organising Committee; Nasser Yousef Al-Marzouqi, Secretary General of the UAE Tennis Federation; Sinead El Sibai, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Dubai Duty Free; and WTA Supervisor Donna Kelso.

Former US Open Champion Takes on Greek Star in First-Round Showdown

The stage is set for an electrifying start to the 25th edition of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, with former US Open champion Emma Raducanu drawing Greek powerhouse Maria Sakkari in a must-watch first-round clash.

The matchup is a rematch of their 2021 US Open semifinal, where Raducanu stormed past Sakkari en route to her historic Grand Slam title. The British star will be making her Dubai debut after receiving a wildcard entry, and she’ll be eager to extend her unbeaten record against the former world No. 3.

Star-Studded Field Gears Up for Silver Anniversary Edition

Elsewhere in the draw, Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur will face American Peyton Stearns in another intriguing opening-round battle. The tournament, celebrating its 25th anniversary, boasts an incredible lineup, with 36 of the world’s top 40 players set to compete. Defending champion Jasmine Paolini, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, and five-time Grand Slam winner Iga Swiatek headline the draw, with all top-eight seeds receiving first-round byes.

“This year marks the 25th edition of the women’s tournament, which has grown alongside the men’s ATP 500 event, now in its 33rd year,” said Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free and Chairman of the tournament’s organizing committee.

Kalinskaya and Cirstea Ready to Make an Impact

Also in attendance at the official draw were World No. 18 Anna Kalinskaya and Dubai resident Sorana Cirstea, who is making her ninth appearance at the tournament. Kalinskaya, who had a breakout year in 2024, climbing from No. 77 to just outside the top 10, is looking forward to another deep run in Dubai.

“I have so many great memories from last year’s matches, and I’m excited to be back,” the 26-year-old said. “Hopefully, I can put on a great performance and deliver some exciting tennis.”

Cirstea, who recently hit her highest ranking in over a decade, shared her excitement about competing in what she considers her home tournament. “I’ve lived in Dubai for years now, so playing here always feels special,” she said. “The field is incredibly strong, but I’m ready to give it my best.”

A Tournament Not to Be Missed

With the women’s tournament running from February 16-22, followed by the men’s ATP 500 event from February 24 to March 1, Dubai is set to host two weeks of world-class tennis action. Fans can secure their seats through Ticketmaster or at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium box office.

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships continues to cement its status as one of the premier stops on the WTA and ATP tours.