Rublev Explains His Choice to Collaborate with Safin: "Marat Has Been an Inspiration Since My Childhood"

To kick off his clay-court season, Andrey Rublev will be in the spotlight following the start of his collaboration with Marat Safin.

The former world No. 1 has agreed to take on a mentoring role for Rublev during the clay tournaments, though it remains uncertain whether this partnership will continue long-term, as the player explained on the ATP website:

"Marat is someone who has inspired me since my childhood. Of course, he’s known me since I was little, and I’ve gotten to know him better and better over time. He’s an extraordinary person who has overcome many challenges.

Deep down, I’ve always wanted to ask him to work with me. When I found out he was ready to take on a role in tennis again, I thought I should take the opportunity. [...]

I hope we’ll work together for a long time, but it will depend on how he feels. Whether he enjoys working with me or finds it difficult. If he feels I’m not listening or not doing things right, he won’t waste his time.

For now, I’m trying to listen to every piece of advice he gives and learn new things. We’ll see how it works out, what it brings me, and what happens next."