It is always challenging to come to terms with a missed chance to participate in a tour-level event. Nevertheless, what happened with Nikoloz Basilashvili is truly sorrowful. The Georgian No. 1 found himself devastated recently after failing to qualify for the ATP 500 tournament in Doha. As a result, Basilashvili directed his frustration at the officials and issued a stern statement, highlighting the anguish it brought him.

Basilashvili claimed the Qatar trophy in 2021 by overcoming Spanish competitor Roberto Bautista Agut, 7-6, 6-2, in the final match. Even though he could not defend his title the subsequent year, ironically losing to the Spaniard in a rematch during the championship match, he achieved a notable credit score at the Middle East event. However, as per the Georgian star, those accomplishments were overlooked by the event organizers when he sought a wildcard entry.

The 32-year-old quickly went on Instagram to clarify the circumstances and, as a result, emotionally promised to never compete in the Qatar Open again in his professional career. “I am somewhat heartbroken “I am somewhat devastated to share that I was unable to secure a wildcard for the Doha tournament, not even for the preliminary phase despite winning the title in 2021 and reaching the final in 2022. I am used to not getting things easily, but this one hurts.”

I understand that money and sponsors play an important role, but above all, there is common sense. Qatar, you have given me incredible moments that I will always remember, but I swear I will not return to play again in my entire professional career,” he added.

He experienced a first-round elimination at the Australian Open and has primarily been competing on the Challenger circuit since that time.