Andrey Rublev surprised himself by staying calm during an intense battle with Carlos Alcaraz in the Madrid quarterfinals. The Russian tennis player mentioned that his work on the mental side of the game was beginning to pay off, allowing him to maintain composure throughout the match. Rublev, who has struggled to control his temper on the court in the past, managed to come back from a set down to defeat world number three Alcaraz. This victory was particularly significant for Rublev, considering his recent challenges on the tour, including a default in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships and incidents of racket smashing during matches.
Despite facing difficulties with his emotions on the court, Rublev expressed his surprise and satisfaction with his ability to stay calm throughout the match against Alcaraz. The 26-year-old player acknowledged the importance of addressing his temperamental behavior and making efforts to remain composed in high-pressure situations. Coming into the Madrid tournament after a four-match losing streak, Rublev’s victory over Alcaraz marked a return to form for the seventh seed. He emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and confronting mental challenges to enhance his performance on the tennis court.
Rublev’s upcoming match in the semifinals against American Taylor Fritz presents another opportunity for the Russian player to showcase his mental strength and skills on the court. As he aims to secure a second Masters title and prepare for the French Open, Rublev’s focus on maintaining composure and controlling his emotions will be crucial. The tennis player’s determination to work on his mental game and stay calm under pressure highlights his commitment to growth and development as a professional athlete. With a renewed focus on the mental aspect of the game, Rublev is poised to achieve greater success in future competitions and solidify his position among the top players in the tennis world.