Basilashvili, former winner in Doha, lashes out at the tournament: "I'll never play here again"

By Jules Hypolite

le 15/02/2025 à 16h33

Basilashvili Doha

Nikoloz Basilashvili is gradually climbing back up the rankings (148th) and won his first match on the ATP circuit for two years in Montpellier in January.

Hoping to play at the ATP 500 Doha, a tournament he won in 2021 and where he played the final in 2022 (the event was then an ATP 250), the Georgian was hoping to be rewarded with a wild-card for this 2025 edition, being just outside the cut for the qualifiers.

Faced with the organizers' refusal to award him one, Basilashvili vented his anger on his Instagram account:

"Hello everyone. I'm sad to share that I didn't have the opportunity to get a wild-card for the Doha tournament, even for the qualifiers.

And this despite winning the title in 2021 and reaching the final in 2022.

I'm not used to getting things easily, but this time it hurts. I was the last player to miss the cut.

I understand that money and sponsors play a role, but above all, it's common sense. Qatar, you've given me some incredible moments and memories that I'll treasure forever.

But I promise this: I will never go back to play here in my professional career."