The ATP 500 in Dubai reaches its penultimate stage with two highly anticipated semifinal matches. The 2022 champion faces a familiar adversary in Alexander Bublik, while defending champion Daniil Medvedev encounters a challenging opponent in Ugo Humbert.
Will we witness an all-Russian final for the second consecutive year, or will one of the former champions bow out?
ATP Dubai Semifinal Predictions
Daniil Medvedev vs Ugo Humbert
Head–to–Head: Medvedev 1 vs 2 Humbert
Ugo Humbert avenged his third-round defeat to Hubert Hukarcz at Melbourne by staging a remarkable comeback victory, setting up a semifinal clash against defending champion Daniil Medvedev. The talented left-handed Frenchman is enjoying a stellar season, securing his fifth career title in Marseille and showcasing exceptional tennis along the way.
Top seed Daniil Medvedev’s sole loss this year came against Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open final. Although the Russian hasn’t hit his peak form, he continues to grind out victories. Despite a slow start against Alexander Shevchenko in the first round and conceding a set to Lorenzo Sonego, Medvedev convincingly defeated Alejandro Fokina in the quarterfinals. He enters the semifinal with confidence, aiming to defend his title.
Interestingly, Humbert leads the head-to-head record, although they are evenly matched on hard courts. The Frenchman has claimed at least one set in each of their three encounters, suggesting a fiercely contested match ahead.
Prediction: Humbert in 3
Andrey Rublev vs Alexander Bublik
Head–to–Head: Rublev 4 vs 2 Bublik
Second seed Andrey Rublev faced an early setback in Dubai, losing the opening game against Zhang Zhinzhen before rallying for a comeback victory. Similarly, Bublik endured three sets against Tomas Machac in the first round and two tiebreakers against Tallon Griekspoor in the next match. Both players benefitted from retirements by their quarterfinal opponents midway through the second set.
This matchup promises excitement, reminiscent of their thrilling encounter at Wimbledon. Bublik, known for his powerful serve, recorded an impressive 22 aces against Tomas Machac, while Rublev is renowned for his prowess as a returner and baseliner.
When two equally matched players collide, experience often becomes the deciding factor. Rublev boasts significant experience in Dubai, reaching his fourth consecutive semifinal and aiming for his third straight final appearance. Expect an exhilarating match, with Rublev elevating his game to secure another opportunity to claim his second title in Dubai.
Prediction: Rublev in 3
