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Dubai Open: Pegula, Rybakina, and Gauff Lead Singles Matches

2/17/2026

47 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Dubai Open on February 17 features 14 singles matches, including Jessica Pegula, Elena Rybakina, and Coco Gauff.
Jessica Pegula faces Varvara Gracheva.
Elena Rybakina—the top seed—plays Kimberly Birrell.
Defending champion Mirra Andreeva will start her title defense against Daria Kasatkina.
Predictions favor Coco Gauff to beat Anna Kalinskaya, Mirra Andreeva to beat Daria Kasatkina, and Elina Svitolina to beat Paula Badosa.

History

Historical Context

The Dubai Tennis Championships, established in 1993, became notable for awarding equal prize money to men and women in 2009. By 2021, the Women's Tennis Association reported a 20% increase in prize money, reflecting growing investment in women's tennis. This evolution, highlighted by players like Naomi Osaka and Ashleigh Barty, underscores the increasing visibility and support for female athletes in professional sports.

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Story summary

The Dubai Open on February 17 features 14 singles matches, including Jessica Pegula, Elena Rybakina, and Coco Gauff.
Jessica Pegula faces Varvara Gracheva.
Elena Rybakina—the top seed—plays Kimberly Birrell.
Defending champion Mirra Andreeva will start her title defense against Daria Kasatkina.
Predictions favor Coco Gauff to beat Anna Kalinskaya, Mirra Andreeva to beat Daria Kasatkina, and Elina Svitolina to beat Paula Badosa.

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