Dubai, UAE – In a thrilling showdown at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, Andrey Rublev emerged victorious against Zhang Zhizhen, overcoming a challenging start to win 6-7, 6-2, 6-4. The match, characterized by its intensity and high-speed serves, showcased the determination and mental resilience of Rublev.
Rublev faced a formidable opponent in Zhang, whose serving prowess initially left the Russian struggling to find his rhythm. “He was serving unreal,” Rublev remarked on Zhang’s performance, emphasizing the difficulty in returning serves that consistently hit around 220 km/h. Despite an early lead in the tiebreak, Rublev found himself on the back foot but managed to stay mentally tough, a trait that proved crucial as the match progressed.
The conditions on the court played a significant role, with Rublev acknowledging the speed of the game. “It feels fast, really fast,” he noted, comparing the current tournament’s pace to previous years and highlighting a lack of rallies which had been more common in his past matches in Dubai.
Rublev, who has enjoyed considerable success at the ATP 500 level, including a win at this tournament a few years ago, expressed his affinity for Dubai not just as a venue but as a city. However, he was quick to point out the unpredictability of playing conditions across different tournaments. “Better to really not focus on the conditions,” Rublev advised, stressing the importance of perseverance and adaptability.
The Russian also touched on the challenge of facing rising stars on the tour, like Zhang and Mensik, who enter matches with nothing to lose and a free-spirited approach. This, according to Rublev, makes them particularly dangerous opponents as they play with increasing confidence and improvement.
In addition to his insights on the tournament and his opponents, Rublev shared a lighter moment discussing the numerous bracelets he wears during matches. He revealed a gradual accumulation over the years, leading to a comfort level with what might seem a distraction to others. “I get used because when you little by little after a while, you don’t really feel,” he explained, showcasing his unique approach to personal style and superstition in the sport.
Rublev’s victory in Dubai not only adds to his impressive track record at the ATP 500 level but also underscores his mental fortitude and adaptability under pressure. As the tournament progresses, his blend of skill, resilience, and tactical savvy will undoubtedly make him a formidable contender for the title.