Indian tennis star Yuki Bhambri is making headlines once again, securing another impressive victory at the ATP 500 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
Teaming up with Australian Alexei Popyrin, Bhambri overcame British pair Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool in a thrilling quarterfinal clash winning 5-7, 7-6(5), 10-5.
This victory not only propels him into the semifinals for the second straight year in Dubai but also serves as sweet revenge after losing to the same duo just a week ago while partnering with Croatian Ivan Dodig.
A Statement Win and a Strong Season
The win marks Bhambri’s third career ATP 500 semifinal appearance, further establishing him as a force in doubles. His partnership with Popyrin has been particularly promising, with the duo pulling off a massive upset in the previous round, stunning the top-seeded team of Marcelo Arevalo (El Salvador) and Mate Pavic (Croatia).
That 4-6, 7-6(1), 10-3 victory against the World No. 1 doubles team was a defining moment in Bhambri’s doubles career.
After dropping the first set, he and Popyrin showcased incredible resilience, forcing a tiebreak and then dominating the match tiebreak in the deciding set. It was a performance filled with confidence, big serves, and clutch shot-making a true testament to Bhambri’s growing stature in the doubles circuit.
Road to the Final Next Up: Murray/Peers
With momentum firmly on his side, Bhambri and Popyrin now gear up for a semifinal battle against the British-Australian duo of Jamie Murray and John Peers. Murray, a seven-time Grand Slam doubles champion, and Peers, a former world No. 2 in doubles, will be formidable opponents. However, given Bhambri and Popyrin’s recent form, another upset could very well be on the cards.
A Tough Exit for Bopanna & Dodig
While Bhambri celebrates success, it was an early exit for Rohan Bopanna and Ivan Dodig, who suffered a first-round defeat to Julian Cash and Lloyd Glasspool. The third-seeded Indo-Croatian pair, who recently won the Australian Open 2024, struggled to find their rhythm, losing 2-6, 4-6 in straight sets.
Despite the disappointment, Bopanna remains a key figure in Indian tennis, and his deep runs in major tournaments continue to inspire younger players like Bhambri.
A Breakthrough Year for Bhambri?
Bhambri, who transitioned fully to doubles after years of battling injuries in singles, seems to be hitting his stride. In 2024, he has been consistent in ATP events, and his results in Dubai prove that he can compete at the highest level.
With a semifinal spot secured, Bhambri is now one step away from making his first-ever ATP 500 final. A win against Murray and Peers could open new doors for him on the tour and further solidify his place among the elite doubles players.
Looking Ahead
As Bhambri continues his Dubai dream run, Indian tennis fans will be hoping for yet another upset. Can he and Popyrin pull off another stunner and march into the final? All eyes will be on Dubai as Bhambri looks to make history.
