Qatar’s Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan moved within one victory of the men’s title at the AVC Beach Tour Doha Open 2026 after reaching the final without dropping a set. Meanwhile, the women’s title race continued with leading teams from Asia and beyond competing for honours.
Cherif and Tijan have delivered strong performances throughout the tournament, overcoming five successive opponents ahead of their final against Australia’s Oliver Merritt and Jed Walker, who also advanced following a series of impressive results.
The Qatari pair secured their place in the final with a 21–18, 21–18 semifinal victory over Australia’s Joshua Howat and Finlay Bennett.
They began their campaign by defeating Thailand’s S. Noppadon and T. Poravid 21–15, 21–19, before overcoming China’s Li Wei and Yuan Ningfei 21–9, 21–15. A 21–13, 21–9 victory over Indonesia’s Firza and Rizqi then secured a perfect record at the top of Pool A.
In the quarterfinals, Cherif and Tijan defeated Thailand’s Netithorn and Wachirawit 26–24, 21–16, before maintaining their unbeaten run in the semifinals.
On the other side of the men’s draw, Merritt and Walker reached the final by beating Australian compatriots Solomon Bushby and Justin Schumann 21–18, 21–19.
Al Kuwari: Doha strengthens its place on the beach volleyball map
Ali bin Ghanem Al Kuwari, President of the Qatar Volleyball Association and the West Asia Volleyball Association, said Cherif and Tijan’s qualification for the final represents another important step for beach volleyball in Qatar and reflects their ability to maintain a high standard in continental competition.
He noted that five consecutive straight-sets victories give particular sporting value to their achievement, as reaching the final requires sustained concentration and consistent performances against opponents with different playing styles.
Al Kuwari added that hosting the tournament offers benefits beyond the medal contests, giving players opportunities to gain experience and strengthening Qatar’s role in staging Asian competitions, in line with efforts to develop the sport and raise competitive standards.
He also highlighted the participation of six Qatari teams in the men’s and women’s competitions, stressing the importance of continuing to support local players and providing the conditions needed for success.
He expressed his hope that Cherif and Tijan would complete their campaign by winning the title against their Australian opponents.
Cherif Younousse: Our focus is the title
Cherif Younousse said reaching the final alongside Ahmed Tijan was an important step, but that the priority was to complete the campaign successfully and turn their strong performances in the earlier rounds into a title.
He added that Oliver Merritt and Jed Walker deserve respect for reaching the final, meaning the Qatari pair must approach the match with complete commitment, focus on the details and take their opportunities at decisive moments.
Cherif said playing the final in Doha gives the occasion special significance, with the pair determined to represent Qatari beach volleyball well in front of the home supporters.
He stressed that their aim is to enter the final with a winning mentality and give their maximum effort to finish the tournament on top of the podium.
Ahmed Tijan: The final demands complete concentration
Ahmed Tijan said reaching the final was the result of sustained work, the partnership he shares with Cherif Younousse and their approach of focusing on each match individually.
He explained that reaching the final without losing a set provides a psychological boost, while also increasing their responsibility in the title match, where they must minimise errors, follow the tactical plan and manage periods of pressure.
Ahmed added that facing Merritt and Walker would present a fresh challenge. Their preparations centre on maintaining their coordination on court, reading their opponents’ movements and concentrating fully on every point, particularly in close sets where small details can determine the outcome.