World No. 8 Andrey Rublev and his compatriot Aslan Karatsev played doubles for Team Russia in the ATP Cup 2021. More recently, the duo also picked up the Qatar Open 2021 doubles title together. Now, they are ready to face each other to make it to the final of ATP Dubai Open 2021.

Inarguably, both of them are currently on a dream run in terms of form and performances. Thus, it is clear that they will not leave anything behind to get past one another on March 19, 2021.

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Aslan Karatsev v Andrey Rublev: Preview

Russian Aslan Karatsev made a name for himself at the Australian Open 2021. He became the first man in over two decades to reach a Grand Slam semi-final on his debut.

As a result, he became the World No. 42 and has caused trouble for every competitor who has gone up against him. To reach the semi-final in Dubai, Karatsev beat Italian teenage sensation Jannik Sinner from one set down 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-2.

However, he will now face the ultimate opponent who also hails from his hometown of Moscow. Andrey Rublev is presently on a 23-match winning streak in ATP 500s. Moreover, the 23-year-old with his blistering groundstrokes is unstoppable.

Together, the Russians will definitely put on a breathtaking battle for tennis fans.

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Karatsev v Rublev: Head-to-Head

The Dubai Duty Free Championships 2021 semi-final will mark their first encounter against one another on the ATP Tour. From here on, their journey as fellow competitors will also begin in addition to them being team players. Who will be the first one to add to their head-to-head tally of 0-0?

Karatsev v Rublev: Prediction

Karatsev has impressed the tennis world with his variety of shots and techniques this year. Notably, he has also gained a reputation as a strong opponent. But there is a shortcoming in his game, and that is his first serve.

Thus, to make a valuable argument for a place in the final, Karatsev will need to make the first serve. Additionally, he will want to play more cross-court than straight-flat, which his opponent is capable of returning with formidable power.

Across the net, Rublev is the favorite for the game on paper. His sensational run at the ATP 500 level says it all. Hence, he will look forward to keeping his momentum against his countryman.

All in all, Karatsev will put on a great argument to make it to the finals, but Rublev will most likely have all the answers.

Prediction: Rublev defeats Karatsev in the final set.

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