The Russian is always willing to speak honestly about his strengths and weaknesses, as well as his rivals’ relative strengths and weaknesses. This is one of Andrey Rublev’s most endearing qualities.
Therefore, it was no surprise when he excitedly started speculating about what might occur when he faces off against Dan Evans of Great Britain in the Australian Open third round on Saturday.
Evans has faced Rublev six times. On Thursday, Rublev advanced by defeating Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland in four sets. Evans won the most recent match, a 6-4, 6-4 triumph on hard courts at the Rogers Cup in Canada in August, breaking a 3-3 deadlock between the two players.
“HE’S ONE OF THE SMARTER PLAYERS ON TOUR,” someone said.
Through his playing style and his ability to be loud on the court, Evans is the kind of player who can annoy anyone. Rublev is aware of both a benefit and a drawback as he prepares for a unique challenge.
He’s one of the most intelligent players on tour, according to Rublev, who said that on Thursday. He is skilled at exploiting the flaws of his opponents and using mental gymnastics to manipulate you. He’s also brilliant around here.
“Let’s wait and see. He easily defeated me in straight sets the last time. So, let’s wait and see if I can exact some retaliation. I’ll do my best.”
“He already knows what he needs to do to defeat me so that everything will work out. And it’s all up to me whether I’m mentally prepared for these mental games and his aggressive style of play against me or not. If not, I’ll lose my mind. Will see.”
“HE WILL TRY TO DO MANY CHARGES AND CHIPS. “
Rublev has only advanced to the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam six times and has so far played well, losing only one set to Ruusuvuori.
However, the Russian is aware that he will need to be mentally alert when facing Evans, who enjoys nothing more than a good argument and a good dogfight. Rublev is conscious of the obstacle he poses.
He declared, “He’ll try to rile me up. He will attempt to make numerous chips and charges, use his forehand immediately, and take his time. Then, as I said, it depends on me. Whether I’ll begin to experience mental instability.”