Andrey Rublev ends Carlos Alcaraz’s bid for hat-trick of titles at Mutua Madrid Open

Andrey Rublev pulled off a stunning upset at the Madrid Open by defeating Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling three-set match. Rublev, the seventh seed, showcased his power and precision on clay as he overcame Alcaraz 4-6 6-3 6-2 under the roof of Manolo Santana Stadium.

Rublev’s aggressive play, with 30 winners and a strategic approach of stepping inside the baseline to pressure Alcaraz, proved to be the winning formula. Alcaraz, who was coming off a tough fourth-round battle, struggled to find his rhythm and fell short against Rublev’s relentless attack.

In a post-match interview with Sky Sports Tennis, Rublev expressed his surprise at his own composure throughout the match, highlighting the importance of staying calm and believing in oneself. The victory marked a significant milestone for Rublev, who credited his team for their support and belief in his abilities.

The defeat for Alcaraz, who missed previous clay-court events due to injury, added to the disappointment for home fans following Rafael Nadal’s exit from the tournament. Despite the loss, Alcaraz’s potential and talent were evident, and he will look to bounce back stronger in future competitions.

Former player Colin Fleming praised Rublev’s performance, acknowledging the Russian’s full power tennis and resilience in securing the win. The match served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of tennis, where a single moment or shot can turn the tide in favor of the underdog.

As the Madrid Open continues, the excitement builds with Elena Rybakina’s thrilling comeback victory over Yulia Putintseva, setting up a compelling semi-final clash. Tennis fans can look forward to more action-packed matches as the tournament progresses, with live coverage available on Sky Sports Tennis.