As the tennis world turns its attention to the ATP Masters 1000 in Shanghai, top-ranked player Andrey Rublev has offered a candid glimpse into the intricacies of his preparation. Known for his explosive power and passionate on-court demeanor, Rublev reveals he is currently in a significant phase of evolution, focusing not just on technique, but fundamentally on his approach to the game itself.
The Practice-Match Paradox: An Age-Old Challenge
It`s a familiar refrain for many athletes: stellar performance in training often struggles to translate seamlessly into the crucible of competitive match play. Rublev, currently ranked 14th in the world, is no stranger to this dichotomy. During intense practice sessions, where he often works with former World No. 1 Marat Safin, the rhythm, aggression, and shot-making can feel impeccable. Yet, when the lights come on and the stakes are real, something shifts.
“There`s a classic situation where everything clicks perfectly in practice, but then you step onto the court for a match, and it`s an entirely different story,” Rublev observed, hinting at the elusive nature of replicating training excellence under pressure. His current objective, he notes, is precisely to “change things so that they don`t change” — a seemingly paradoxical goal that underscores the profound psychological and technical adjustments he is pursuing.
The Safin Influence: Beyond “Bling” and Banter
Training with a personality as vivid as Marat Safin inevitably brings a certain intensity, punctuated by strong emotions and direct feedback. While Rublev humorously sidesteps detailing the exact “top-3 words” frequently exchanged during these fiery sessions – simply attributing a general “expletive” as a common refrain, delivered “like at home” – the underlying seriousness of their collaboration is clear. Safin, a two-time Grand Slam champion, brings a wealth of experience in navigating the sport`s highest echelons, making his guidance invaluable during Rublev`s current transformative period.
A “Pivotal Moment”: Redefining the Game
Rublev describes this period as a “pivotal moment” where “everything is changing in terms of the game.” This isn`t merely about tweaking a serve or refining a backhand; it implies a deeper, more comprehensive re-evaluation of his playing style and strategy. While the specifics remain, understandably, under wraps, it suggests a strategic recalibration designed to bridge the gap between his training capabilities and his match-day execution. The aim is to achieve a level of fluidity and consistency that can withstand the unique pressures of professional competition.
The Mental Edge: Learning from Doubles and Khachanov
Perhaps the most insightful aspect of Rublev`s current self-assessment revolves around mental fortitude. He draws a fascinating parallel between his singles play and his successful doubles partnership with compatriot Karen Khachanov. The “vibe” during doubles, he notes, is distinctly different – characterized by mutual support, positivity, and a more relaxed attitude. This leads to a crucial realization:
“In singles? I`d like to transfer my attitude,” Rublev stated. “The way I manage to approach things, to support myself, to be positive when playing doubles with Karen. We`ll transfer that.”
This desire extends to a more holistic “normal attitude without expectations, without anything” – particularly concerning errors. Instead of dwelling on mistakes, Rublev aims to foster a more accepting and forward-looking mindset, not just towards his play, but “to everything. To life.” This shift in perspective, moving beyond the immediate frustration of an error to a broader, more resilient outlook, could be the key to unlocking new levels of consistency and performance.
Looking Ahead: The Unfolding Narrative
As Andrey Rublev steps onto the courts of the Shanghai Masters, he carries with him not just the weight of expectation but also the quiet ambition of a player consciously reshaping his game and his mental approach. This “pivotal moment” is more than just a phrase; it`s a testament to the continuous evolution required at the pinnacle of professional tennis. How these fundamental shifts will manifest on court remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Rublev is investing deeply in a transformation designed to make his formidable talent even more consistently potent.
