Carlos Alcaraz vs Arthur Rinderknech prediction, betting tips & odds, head-to-head, preview: ATP Qatar Open 2026
Alcaraz eyes maiden title in Qatar.
Carlos Alcaraz arrives at the ATP Qatar Open 2026 as the World No. 1, fresh off completing the Career Grand Slam with his maiden Australian Open title. The 22-year-old Spaniard beat Novak Djokovic in the Melbourne final and carries strong momentum into Doha, boasting a perfect start to the season.
Alcaraz’s explosive athleticism, heavy forehand, and improved composure in big moments make him the standout favorite in this ATP 500 event. Playing his first tournament since the Melbourne glory, he will look to extend his dominance and add another title to his cabinet.
Arthur Rinderknech, ranked No. 28, faces a daunting task in the first round. The Frenchman relies heavily on his big serve and aggressive baseline play, and while he has shown flashes of competitiveness on hard courts, he enters Doha seeking form and consistency against the toughest possible opponent.
Match details
- Tournament: ATP Qatar Open 2026
- Round: Round of 32
- Date: February 17
- Venue: Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex, Doha, Qatar
- Surface: Hard Court (outdoor)
Preview
Alcaraz made his Doha debut last year and suffered a shocking quarter-final defeat. He will look to make amends this time around and would be eyeing a solid start against Rinderknech. The Frenchman carries contrasting form, having suffered consecutive opening-round setbacks at both Australian Open and Rotterdam.
History too favours the Spaniard, who carries a flawless 4-0 advantage against his rival. They met previously at the US Open in 2025, when Alcaraz won easily in straight sets.
Form
- Carlos Alcaraz: W-W-W-W-W
- Arthur Rinderknech: L-L-L-W-L
Head-to-head record
- Matches: 4
- Carlos Alcaraz: 4
- Arthur Rinderknech: 0
Stats
Carlos Alcaraz
- Alcaraz is 7-0 in 2026 so far
- Alcaraz is 2-1 in Doha
- Alcaraz holds a 81% winning percentage on hard courts
Arthur Rinderknech
- Rinderknech is 3-3 in 2026 so far
- Rinderknech is 3-3 in Doha
- Rinderknech holds a 60% winning percentage on hard courts
Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz’s projected path to Qatar Open 2026 final
Carlos Alcaraz vs Arthur Rinderknech: Betting tips and odds
- Moneyline: Alcaraz -3000, Rinderknech +1300
- Spread: Alcaraz -6.5 (+100), Rinderknech +6.5 (-120)
- Total Games: Over 19.5 (-110), Under 19.5 (-110)
Match prediction
Alcaraz enters the match as a clear favourite to prevail in straight sets, with his superior return game, depth, and current form expected to overwhelm Rinderknech. While the Frenchman’s serve may create brief resistance, Alcaraz’s consistency should ensure a comfortable outcome.
This projects as a convincing first-round win for the Spaniard in Doha, providing an ideal platform for a deep run in the tournament.
Where and how to watch live streaming and TV broadcast of Carlos Alcaraz vs Arthur Rinderknech, first-round match at Qatar Open 2026?
Indian viewers can watch the opening round match between Alcaraz and Rinderknech on Tennis Channel and Fancode app, as there is no official partner for the live telecast of the tournament.
Viewers in the UK can watch the blockbuster match live on Sky Sports and streaming partner Discovery Plus. Tennis Channel will broadcast the action-packed contest in the US along with streaming partner Fubo.
Where and when will Carlos Alcaraz vs Arthur Rinderknech round of 32 match at ATP Qatar Open 2026 take place?
The opening round match will be held at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in Doha. It has a tentative start time of 7:30 pm local time and 10:00 pm in India.
What is the head-to-head record between Carlos Alcaraz and Arthur Rinderknech?
The duo have clashed four times on tour previously, with Alcaraz winning on all four occasions.
What happened in the most recent meeting between Carlos Alcaraz and Arthur Rinderknech?
Their last meeting on tour was as the US Open last year. Alcaraz won that round of 16 clash in straight sets 7-6(3), 6-3, 6-4.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.