Fils Stuns Mensik to Reach Doha Final Against Alcaraz

Arthur Fils beats Mensik

Frenchman Arthur Fils defeats Jakub Mensik 6-4, 7-6(4) to face Carlos Alcaraz in the Doha final.

"My team knows how tough it was...”

Arthur Fils has made it to the Doha final, taking on Carlos Alcaraz after a thrilling 6-4, 7-6(4) win over sixth seed Jakub Mensik. Fils' impressive straight-sets victory marks his first tour-level final since claiming the ATP 500 title in Tokyo back in 2024.

What it means! 🙌#QatarExxonMobilOpen pic.twitter.com/Y7FlFSPRze

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) February 20, 2026

Mensik, who had a remarkable quarter-final win over Jannik Sinner, couldn't quite replicate that form against Fils. The Frenchman's composed performance, particularly in the tie-break, proved decisive in securing his spot in the final.

Fils, who's only playing his third event since returning from an eight-month back injury, humbly shared, “It's been a tough journey.” His resilience and determination have clearly paid off, landing him in the Doha final against Alcaraz.

“Eight months without playing tennis, just watching the other guys battling... Staying in my bed and doing recovery was very long.

"My team knows how tough it was, but now it feels even better when I am coming back like this. To be back in a final, it means a lot.”

Fils, ranked 40, is feeling confident after adding Goran Ivanisevic to his coaching staff. Despite Alcaraz winning their previous two meetings on clay, Fils believes he can turn the tables, saying he's in a good position to take on the world number one.

He's back! 😍

Arthur Fils defeats Jakub Mensik 6-4 7-6 to reach a 5th ATP Tour final 💪#QatarExxonMobilOpen pic.twitter.com/iwRcZaULgL

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) February 20, 2026

“If you believe, then maybe you can do it, so I believe 100 per cent,“ said Fils. “Let's see tomorrow on the court but for sure I am coming on court to fight.”