World No. 14 tennis player Andrey Rublev offered insights into his intensive training regimen leading up to the Shanghai Masters. He discussed his dynamic collaboration with legendary coach Marat Safin and his continuous efforts to refine both his playing style and mental approach on court.
Intense Training Sessions with Marat Safin
When asked about the lively emotions and specific expressions frequently used during his practice sessions with Marat Safin, Rublev, with a characteristic smile, playfully suggested that “damn” or similar exclamations were probably the most common. He explained that in such moments of intense focus and exertion, one often switches off consciously, and words tend to emerge spontaneously as part of the raw emotion.
Bridging the Gap Between Practice and Match Play
Rublev candidly acknowledged the significant psychological and technical differences that often arise once a competitive match begins compared to a controlled training environment. He emphasized that he and his team are actively working to minimize these discrepancies. The common challenge where everything flows smoothly in practice but changes under the pressure of actual competition is a primary focus of their current efforts to enhance consistency.
The Ongoing Evolution of His Game
The athlete underscored that his goal isn`t a single, defined endpoint, but rather a continuous process of improvement and adaptation. “We`re simply doing our work, and things are gradually shifting,” Rublev stated. “We are currently in the process of changing my game, navigating a significant turning point. We`re in a phase where everything is evolving in terms of my play – we`ll just have to wait and see what emerges.” This highlights his deep commitment to an active transformation of his playing style and strategic approach.
Adopting a Doubles Mindset for Singles
Rublev also expressed a desire to integrate the positive mental attitude he exhibits in doubles matches, particularly when partnered with Karen Khachanov, into his singles performances. He finds himself showcasing greater positivity, mutual support, and a more constructive mindset during doubles play, which he aims to carry over to his individual matches.
What “Attitude” Entails
He clarified that this desired “attitude” is a holistic one: a calm and composed approach free from excessive expectations and self-imposed pressure. This encompasses his reactions to errors, his overall game strategy, and his broader perspective on life itself, aiming for a more balanced and resilient competitive spirit.
