Madrid: Andrey Rublev showcased his tenacity and skill as he battled back from a set down to defeat Felix Auger-Aliassime in a thrilling final at the Madrid Open on Sunday, capturing his second Masters 1000 title in an epic showdown.
The match started with Auger-Aliassime asserting his dominance, taking the opening set 6-4 and putting Rublev on the back foot. However, the Russian star refused to concede defeat and launched a remarkable comeback that electrified the crowd.
Rublev’s resilience was on full display as he fought tooth and nail in the second set, matching Auger-Aliassime shot for shot. With both players delivering blistering serves and showcasing impeccable groundstrokes, the set remained tightly contested. In a pivotal moment, Rublev capitalized on a crucial break to snatch the set 7-5, leveling the match and setting the stage for a dramatic finale.
The third set proved to be a nail-biting affair, with both players refusing to yield an inch. As the tension mounted, Rublev seized the moment at a critical juncture, breaking Auger-Aliassime’s serve at 6-5 to surge ahead. Despite Auger-Aliassime’s valiant efforts to stay in the contest, two untimely double faults dashed his hopes of a comeback, handing Rublev the victory in an intense battle that lasted just under three hours.
Rublev’s triumph at the Madrid Open marks a significant milestone in his career, underscoring his resilience and determination to succeed at the highest level of the sport. With his exceptional performance throughout the tournament, the 26-year-old Russian has solidified his status as one of the top contenders on the ATP Tour.
As the tennis world marvels at Rublev’s remarkable achievement, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing more thrilling battles on the court as the season progresses.
Final Score:
Andrey Rublev def. Felix Auger-Aliassime 4-6, 7-5, 7-5