Carlos Alcaraz Calls Andrey Rublev 'Unplayable' After Practice Session

Carlos Alcaraz Praises Andrey Rublev's Skill in Practice

Carlos Alcaraz, ranked world number three, recently described fellow tennis pro Andrey Rublev as 'unplayable' after they faced off during a practice match. Despite Rublev's early exit from the Vienna Open, Alcaraz shared insights on the challenge Rublev posed on the court.

Alcaraz Reflects on the Practice Match

The 23-year-old Spaniard, who is already considered one of tennis's future greats with seven Grand Slam titles under his belt, revealed that Rublev dominated their session. Alcaraz lost the practice set 6-2 and was impressed by Rublev’s aggressive forehands and powerful backhands.

“Sometimes it’s really hard to see things for what they are,” Alcaraz explained. “When I was practicing with Rublev, I lost 6-2, but I was playing well. He was unplayable. He hit every forehand full out and very powerful backhands. I couldn’t be aggressive at all, not even on one or two shots. That’s why I left the court a little unhappy, but at the same time telling myself: okay, I’m doing the right things.”

“Sometimes in tennis you play against someone who tries not to let you play. But that day, I left the court thinking about what I had done well. I think I did a lot of good things, to be honest. I also learned a lot from these sessions.”

Season Overview and Upcoming Matches

Alcaraz has had a tough year due to a wrist injury that sidelined him for the French Open and Wimbledon. This season, he claimed only one Grand Slam title. His rival Jannik Sinner also suffered injuries but is expected to return in December.

At the Vienna Open, Alcaraz won his opening match against Karen Khachanov with scores of 6-4, 7-6. He now awaits the winner between Jurij Rodionov and Nikoloz Basilashvili. Originally not scheduled to play in Vienna, Alcaraz accepted a late wildcard after the Six Kings Slam was postponed.

Rublev’s first-round loss to American Tommy Paul spared Alcaraz a potential quarter-final showdown with him, since they were drawn in the same half. Should Alcaraz advance, he may face Paul next, provided Paul overcomes Italian Luciano Darderi in the round of 16.