A duel with a hint of revenge for Rublev

Confidence restored for the Frenchman against a solid but warned Rublev

Valentin finally got his 2026 tally going last week in Doha. His win over Pierre-Hugues Herbert allowed him to launch his season, before delivering a very solid performance against Carlos Alcaraz. Even in defeat, he showed composure, intensity, and an ability to compete in the rallies. Overall, the Qatari tournament remains very positive for him, both in terms of his game and his confidence.

On his side, Rublev is also coming off an encouraging week. Three fine wins, an overall convincing level, then an honorable loss to Alcaraz. The Russian seems to be gradually finding stability in his game again, especially in his baseline rhythm, where he was able to impose his intensity.

However, one key factor should not be forgotten: Royer had beaten Rublev at the end of 2025, which remains to this day the finest victory of his career. This success can serve as an important mental reference point. Knowing that he has already found solutions against a player of this caliber can strongly fuel his belief before stepping on court. In Dubai, the fast conditions should suit the Frenchman quite well. He will be able to rely on his serve and his ability to accelerate early in the rally. Above all, he will be playing without any pressure, in the role of a complete underdog. Against a Rublev who is sometimes prone to emotional swings, this freedom could allow him to stay in the match and push the Russian to his limits.