Who Will Play the 2026 ATP Qatar Open? Here’s the Star List
DOHA, Qatar — The tennis world turns its gaze toward the Arabian Peninsula this week as the 2026 Qatar ExxonMobil Open prepares to host one of the most formidable lineups in its 34-year history. Following its upgrade to a permanent ATP 500 status, the tournament has attracted a “who’s who” of modern tennis, led by the sport’s two most dominant young titans and a supporting cast of perennial champions.
The 2026 edition, held at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex, features a draw that rivals many Masters 1000 events. While fans were disappointed by the late withdrawal of Novak Djokovic, the field remains a masterclass in variety, featuring baseline grinders, explosive shot-makers, and the “Czech Renaissance” currently sweeping the tour.
The Elite Vanguard: Alcaraz and Sinner
At the summit of the draw sit the two men who have redefined the sport over the last 24 months. Carlos Alcaraz (1) arrives in Doha as the undisputed World No. 1, fresh off a historic triumph at the Australian Open where he became the youngest man to complete the Career Grand Slam. Alcaraz is making just his second appearance in Doha, looking to add a first Middle Eastern trophy to his massive collection.
Chasing him is Jannik Sinner (2), the World No. 2. This marks Sinner’s debut in the Qatar capital, and his presence has sent ticket sales into a frenzy. Sinner, known for his clinical ball-striking and cool demeanor, is projected for a blockbuster final against Alcaraz—a matchup many believe is the current “Gold Standard” of professional tennis.
The Unpredictable and the Unyielding
The third seed belongs to Alexander Bublik (3). The Kazakhstani star has enjoyed a meteoric rise, breaking into the Top 10 for the first time in January 2026 after a title run in Hong Kong. Bublik brings his signature “trick shots” and underarm serves to Doha, offering a stylistic contrast to the fourth seed, Daniil Medvedev (4). Medvedev, a former Doha champion (2023), remains one of the hardest men to beat on these gritty hard courts, utilizing his deep court positioning and tactical brilliance.
Defending Glory and Rising Stars
The middle of the seeded pack features a heavy dose of Eastern European power. Andrey Rublev (5) returns as the defending champion, having triumphed here in 2025. Rublev’s high-octane forehand is a staple of the Doha atmosphere, and he remains a dark horse to reclaim his crown.
Perhaps the most intriguing story is that of Jakub Mensik (6). The 20-year-old Czech sensation, who reached the final here in 2024 as a teenager, returns as a Top 20 player and a Masters 1000 champion (Miami 2025). He leads a strong Czech contingent that includes Jiri Lehecka (8), both of whom possess the modern “big-man” game—massive serves paired with surprising mobility.
Rounding out the top eight is Karen Khachanov (7), the 2024 champion. Khachanov’s reliability in high-heat conditions makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the draw, ensuring that from the very first round, the path to the trophy will be a gauntlet of elite talent.