SUMMARY
- ATP Qatar Open features star players like Rublev, Murray, and Khachanov in Doha from Feb 19-24.
- A mix-up on the Qatar Open's Instagram page, mistook Karen Khachanov for Richard Gasquet.
The ATP Tour is gearing up for the much-anticipated Qatar Open, a thrilling ATP event set to grace the courts of Doha from February 19 to 24. Amongst the star-studded lineup featuring the likes of Andrey Rublev, Andy Murray, and Karen Khachanov, excitement fills the air as fans eagerly await top-tier tennis action.
As the players gear up for battle, the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex stands ready to host the tournament, a significant fixture on the ATP calendar since its inception in 1993. This year, however, marks a bittersweet moment as the event bids adieu to its ATP 250 status, poised to elevate to an ATP 500 event from 2025 onwards.
With a capacity to accommodate up to 7,000 spectators since its renovation in 2008, the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex promises an electrifying atmosphere for players and fans. Amidst the anticipation, a recent mix-up on the Qatar Open’s official Instagram page stirred laughter and confusion among fans.
Sir that is not Gasquet 😭 pic.twitter.com/DBwNjfR85Y
— Melanie Lautrup (@melanie_lautrup) February 18, 2024
In their Instagram story featuring prominent players one of the captions mistakenly identified Karen Khachanov as Richard Gasquet. Despite the swift deletion of the post, vigilant fans wasted no time in pointing out the Karen Khachanov blunder, with one humorously pointing, “Sir, that is not Gasquet,” followed by a crying emoji, while another simply exclaimed, “Oops, wrong number.”
Oops, wrong number https://t.co/NyCwoqFGt2
— Jimmy (@Racquettechie) February 18, 2024
As the Qatar Open unfolds, the world watches eagerly, anticipating not only thrilling matches on the court but also perhaps a few more unexpected twists and turns along the way. With the stage set and the players ready for action, the tournament promises to deliver unforgettable moments.
Three key players withdraw from the 2024 Qatar Open
The ATP Qatar Open faces a setback as three prominent players announce their withdrawal from the tournament, altering the competitive dynamics. Rafael Nadal, nursing a muscle injury sustained during the Brisbane International, reluctantly withdraws, redirecting his focus towards regaining fitness for the upcoming Indian Wells Masters in March after missing out on the Australian Open.
Following suit, Daniil Medvedev, the defending champion, opts out of the Qatar Open fray after a grueling Australian Open final against Jannik Sinner. Despite his stellar track record and a previous triumph at the event, Medvedev’s absence leaves fans wondering who will emerge as the new title contender.
Rafael Nadal has pulled out of the Qatar Open in Doha next week as he continues to struggle with a left hip injury 🇶🇦❌
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) February 14, 2024
Adding to the absentees, Borna Coric, fresh from a runner-up finish at the Montpellier Open, chooses to skip the Qatar Open without citing a specific reason. With his recent encounters with Alexander Bublik ending in defeat, Coric’s decision possibly aims at recuperating before the rigorous US swing slated for March.
As the tournament progresses, the absence of these formidable contenders not only shifts the dynamics but also creates an opportune moment for emerging talents to make their mark on the courts of Doha in 2024.