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Rublev opens up after losing to Alcaraz: "I gifted him the second set"

Wimbledon was once again the scene of an emotionally charged duel, this time with Andrey Rublev as the unwitting protagonist. The Russian, who started the match with energy and good rhythm, ended up losing to Carlos Alcaraz in a clash that left more frustration than consolation. And not because he didn't compete: he did, and on equal terms. But it slipped through his fingers. Literally.

Rublev started strongly, returning solidly and taking advantage of a somewhat erratic performance from the Murcian in the early games. He deservedly took the first set, although even then Alcaraz was showing signs that he was gauging the match. But it was the second set that marked a turning point. ‘I lost that set on my own, without Carlos doing much,’ Rublev acknowledged after the match, visibly annoyed with himself. Unforced errors, double faults and occasional lapses in concentration took their toll just when he seemed to be in control.

What stings particularly is his poor performance at the net: he only won 10 of the 24 times he came forward (42%). On several occasions, he had the opportunity to close out clear points, but he failed at key moments. ‘I don't remember missing two such easy volleys in the same game,’ he confessed. That's where he lost a good part of his chances.

In the third set, history repeated itself. Rublev had chances, but an incredible ball from Alcaraz on a break point ended up undermining his morale. ‘Carlos understood. He knew that was the moment to go for the match and he didn't hesitate,’ explained the Russian. While the Spaniard grew in confidence, he deflated, dragging the mental slump from the previous set with him.

Despite the defeat, Rublev did not shut himself off. He was self-critical, but also had a new perspective. ‘I'm learning to be kinder to myself. Before, I punished myself a lot for every mistake. Today, at least, I fought until the end without saying negative things to myself,’ he said. A small step in his mental evolution, which he himself considers key to continuing to compete at this level.

The Russian also reflected on his overall performance. ‘I don't know what happened this week, but I feel like I can play at this level again. Maybe it's my mindset, or the thoughts I've been having lately. If I can maintain this level, good things will come,’ he said hopefully.

As for the start of the match, he acknowledged that Alcaraz did not start well. ‘He looked tense. That helped me get into it, but then he didn't miss anything else. Only when he served for the match did he make a mistake. That's the big difference between him and me: he can stay focused throughout the match,’ he admitted with admiration.

Finally, Rublev touched on a topic that is becoming increasingly important among elite athletes: mental health. ‘Everyone has their own issues to deal with, no matter what they do. Before, people always tried to project a perfect image, but now social media is changing that. There is more sincerity, more space to say what is really going on. Athletes are no longer just unattainable idols,’ he reflected.

Despite the defeat, Rublev leaves Wimbledon with an important message: he is not only looking to win matches, he is also searching for a more balanced version of himself. In an increasingly demanding circuit, that journey can be just as important as lifting trophies.