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Alcaraz Wins in Doha, Defending Champ Kecmanovic Advances in Delray Beach
Top seeds shine in ATP action across the globe
Published on Feb. 22, 2026
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Top-seeded Carlos Alcaraz defeated France's Arthur Rinderknech in straight sets in the first round of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open in Doha. Meanwhile, defending champion Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia began his title defense with a win at the Delray Beach Open in Florida. Other seeded players also advanced in Doha and Delray Beach, as well as at the Rio Open in Brazil.
Why it matters
These early-round victories by top players set the stage for exciting matchups and potential title runs at these ATP Tour events. Alcaraz's win after completing the career Grand Slam at the Australian Open shows his continued dominance, while Kecmanovic looks to repeat as champion in Delray Beach.
The details
In Doha, Alcaraz shook off two set points against Rinderknech to win 6-4, 7-6(5). Other seeded players like Andrey Rublev, Karen Khachanov and Jiri Lehecka also advanced. At the Delray Beach Open, defending champion Miomir Kecmanovic cruised past Italy's Mattia Bellucci 6-1, 6-4. In other matches, Americans Brandon Nakashima, Sebastian Korda and Tommy Paul all won their opening-round contests.
- Alcaraz's match was his first since winning the Australian Open and completing the career Grand Slam.
- Kecmanovic is the defending champion at the Delray Beach Open.
The players
Carlos Alcaraz
The world No. 1 and reigning Australian Open champion.
Miomir Kecmanovic
The defending champion at the Delray Beach Open.
Arthur Rinderknech
A French tennis player who faced off against Alcaraz in the first round in Doha.
Andrey Rublev
A Russian tennis player and the No. 5 seed in Doha.
Karen Khachanov
A Russian tennis player and the No. 7 seed in Doha.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
The takeaway
These early-round victories by top players set the stage for exciting matchups and potential title runs at these ATP Tour events, showcasing the continued dominance of stars like Alcaraz and the drive of defending champions like Kecmanovic to repeat their success.
