Rublev overthrows Alcaraz in Madrid!
Andrey Rublev has been completely reborn. Unable to win a single match for weeks (4 consecutive defeats prior to Madrid), the world no. 8 delivered an exceptional performance to knock out Carlos Alcaraz, two-time title-holder in Spain (4-6, 6-3, 6-2 in 1h59).
Despite an average start to the match, the Russian went on to play at an exceptional level, dominating a helpless Alcaraz (27 winners, 13 unforced errors, 80% of points won on first serve). More aggressive than ever and taking the ball early, Andrey Rublev never stopped taking time away from the Spaniard. Very good on serve and super-powerful from the baseline, the Moscow-born player scored a benchmark victory.
Without playing badly (19 winners to 11 unforced errors), the defending champion curiously lacked the solutions to counter a very poised opponent. Back from injury at the Caja Magica, the world number 3 loses his title and will have to make further progress if he is to aim for the title at Roland-Garros.
For Alcaraz's tormentor, one week follows another, and there's no resemblance as he signs his finest victory of the season. With his rare composure, the 1.88m right-hander surprised everyone and is now on course for the semi-finals in Madrid.
For a place in the final, he will face the winner of the match between Francisco Cerundolo and Taylor Fritz.
