Cover Photo – Ranjith Kumar

Yuki Bhambri and Robin Hasse may not have expected to find themselves in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships semi-finals, but their chemistry and determination proved to be a winning formula. Bhambri reflects on the unique challenge of facing a friend on the court, their strategic adjustments this week, and their unwavering focus on the next challenge. As they prepare for another formidable pair in Ivan Dodig & Austin Krajicek, their journey in Dubai serves as an inspiration for perseverance and teamwork.

Excerpts from the interview below:

On playing against Michael Venus, an old friend:

“Always tough playing a friend, especially when you’ve known someone for so long. But it’s still very different, because we hadn’t really faced each other in a very long time. Regardless, we were playing a quality team and we had to really step up our game and do the best we can. Happy with the win”

On returning from the Deuce side this week as opposed to the Ad side:

“Playing the Deuce side this week because I think Robin (Haase) is a pretty good returner himself so we just decided to change things up and see how it would go by switching sides. So far so good”

On the upcoming Semifinal Challenge

“We’ve got another tough match tomorrow afternoon against Dodig/Krajicek. Have to play our best again. Every match is difficult, but we have just got to keep going, keep pushing, and keep fighting”