Andrey Rublev’s triumph in the Madrid Open final against Felix Auger-Aliassime was a testament to his resilience and newfound composure. Despite a frustrating start, Rublev displayed remarkable patience and determination to overcome the Canadian’s powerful serve and secure his second Masters 1000 title.
Rublev’s frustration was evident early on as he fell behind 1-4. However, he remained focused and began to dominate the rallies, holding his serve with ease and returning Auger-Aliassime’s shots with precision. Despite creating numerous break point opportunities, Rublev’s inability to convert them left him feeling helpless.
Auger-Aliassime, buoyed by his 14 aces, managed to hold on to his serve throughout the second and third sets. However, in the crucial moments, he faltered. In the second set, he made three unforced errors to hand Rublev the break. In the third set, with the title on the line, he double-faulted twice, including on match point.
Rublev’s victory was particularly significant given the challenges he had faced in recent weeks. He had been suffering from a mystery illness that left him physically drained and unable to eat or swallow. Despite the pain, he managed to play through the discomfort thanks to injections and painkillers.
Mentally, Rublev had also been struggling after being defaulted for unsportsmanlike conduct in Dubai. However, he showed remarkable composure in Madrid, never losing his cool even when faced with adversity.
Rublev’s triumph is a testament to his growth as a player. He has learned to control his emotions and channel his frustration into positive energy. Whether it was overcoming Carlos Alcaraz, battling through illness, or facing down Auger-Aliassime’s aces, Rublev remained calm and collected, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with when he keeps his head.
