Top-seeds clinch 2023 China Open Men’s Doubles Championship

On Wednesday night, top seeds Ivan Dodig and Austin Krajicek overcame second seeds Wesley Koolhof and Neal Skupski 6-7(12), 6-3, 10-5, clinching their fifth tour-level title of the season together at the China Open.

The two pairs had encountered three times previously. Dodig and Krajicek had a slightly inferior record with one win and two losses, but each encounter produced closely contested sets, often reaching a tiebreak. Their clash in the China Open final was no exception.

In the first set, both sides remained evenly matched, showcasing their determination to win the champion without giving the opponent any break points. The set went into a tiebreak, during which both pairs demonstrated their utmost skills and resilience.

The top-seeded pair secured a set point first, but were immediately caught up and then surpassed by their opponents. Eventually, the second seeds saved four set points and held on to their fourth set point, narrowly claiming the first set with a close score of 14-12.

In the second set, the top-seeded pair maintained their focus, and in the crucial eighth game, they raised their level and broke their opponents’ serve. They then smoothly held their own serve, sealing the set and leveling the match.

Both pairs entered the decisive tiebreak, showcasing performances that proved their championship-worthy qualities. Ultimately, Dodig and Krajicek overcame a 1-3 deficit, winning the tiebreak 10-5, claiming the championship.

It is worth mentioning that in the previous 2019 China Open, Dodig partnered with Filip Polasek to win the men’s doubles title. At the 2023 China Open, he has once again claimed the champion with Krajicek, successfully defending the Men’s Doubles crown after four years.

During the post-match press conference, Dodig and Krajicek expressed their love and praise for the China Open, mentioning the tremendous support they received from the spectators.

Considering it as one of the best tournaments of this year, the top-seeded wished to come back to the China Open next year.