Jannik Sinner, currently ranked number two in the world, is set to begin his campaign at the ATP 500 tournament in Doha starting February 16, following a disappointing semifinal exit against Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open. He will face Czech player Tomas Machac, who is ranked 31st in the ATP rankings, in the first round. This match is significant as Sinner aims to regain momentum in his fight against fellow young star Carlos Alcaraz, who is currently the top-ranked player.

Tomas Machac, 25, has made notable strides in his career, breaking into the Top 100 in 2022 and achieving a career-best ranking of 20th in March 2025. He notably won his first ATP Tour title in Acapulco and became the first Czech player to reach the Top 20 since Tomas Berdych in 2018. Machac's impressive performance includes a remarkable victory against both Djokovic and Alcaraz, showcasing his potential as a formidable opponent for Sinner. His favorite shot is the tweener, and while he prefers playing on hard courts, Wimbledon remains his favorite tournament.

Sinner and Machac have met twice before, with Sinner maintaining an undefeated record against Machac, winning both encounters. As Sinner prepares to compete in Doha, the anticipation for this match is building, not only for fans but also for Sinner's aspirations for the season. The match is vital for both players, as they look to improve their standings and gain confidence in a competitive ATP season ahead.