By Carlos Alcaraz’s bid for a hat-trick of titles at the Mutua Madrid Open came to an abrupt halt as Andrey Rublev pulled off a remarkable upset, sending the Spanish sensation crashing out of the tournament.
In a thrilling encounter under the roof of Manolo Santana Stadium, Rublev showcased his prowess on clay, securing a hard-fought victory over Alcaraz with a scoreline of 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. The seventh-seeded Rublev displayed his aggressive style of play, consistently pressuring Alcaraz and capitalizing on key moments to clinch the win.
Reflecting on his monumental triumph, Rublev expressed his astonishment at his composure throughout the match, crediting his ability to maintain focus in the face of adversity. With an impressive display of power tennis, Rublev earned a semifinal berth against American Taylor Fritz, setting the stage for another thrilling showdown.
Despite the support of a fervent home crowd, including notable figures such as David Villa, Raul, and Luka Modric, Alcaraz struggled to regain momentum after losing the second set, ultimately falling short against his determined opponent.
Following his defeat, Alcaraz remained optimistic about his prospects for the upcoming Rome Masters, despite ongoing concerns about his right forearm injury. Determined to overcome his physical limitations, Alcaraz expressed his commitment to preparing for the French Open and vowed to approach his recovery with patience and diligence.
Commentators and analysts hailed Rublev’s performance as a career-defining moment, acknowledging the significance of his victory over the highly touted Alcaraz. With his sights set on further success in future tournaments, Rublev’s resolute determination and unwavering focus have solidified his status as a formidable force in the world of tennis.
