Stefanos Tsitsipas congratulates ‘kid’ Andrey Rublev as the Russian makes him eat his own words

Stefanos Tsitsipas congratulates “the guy with few tools” Andrey Rublev for his maiden masters title by calling him “kid”

Stefanos Tsitsipas congratulates ‘kid’ Andrey Rublev as the Russian makes him eat his own words

Stefanos Tsitsipas and Andrey Rublev

Greek World No.5 Stefanos Tsitsipas was one of the first players to congratulate Russian World No.6 Andrey Rublev after winning his first ATP-1000 Masters title in Monte Carlo. This was not so expected by the tennis world since the Greek had a history of calling Rublev a “guy with few tools” after he lost his group match in the ATP Finals, in 2022.

As Tsitsipas tweeted now, “He deserves it. He is a good kid.” As soon as the tweet popped up, there were fans pointing out the Greek’s remarks about Rublev in 2022. He said then, “It’s a shame. I feel like the better player, felt like I could do more with the ball today. I felt like I could just be much more creative. I don’t even have to say that. I think it’s quite obvious.“

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Tsitsipas continued then, “But, yeah, he prevailed with the few tools that he has. He was able to really take advantage of them and win today.” Then the response of Rublev was subtle, “I mean, I don’t know if I have few tools or not, If we go shot by shot, I think his backhand is better than mine. His forehand is not better than mine. The speed serve is not better than mine. He’s faster, Obviously he’s better player because he’s higher ranked and he achieved better results. It’s obvious. There is no doubt.”

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Also Read: WTA Stuttgart Open 2023: Where to watch, live streaming details, and TV schedule

Andrey Rublev is yet to lose a match on clay this season

Andrey Rublev
Andrey Rublev

The Russian World No.6 won his first ATP-1000 final in his third attempt overall. Before the final won at Monte Carlo this year, he lost both of the finals after losing in the first two attempts at Monte Carlo Masters 2021 and Cincinnati Masters 2021. His maiden ATP-1000 Masters title in Monte Carlo is the final result of the total grit, determination, and dedication he has shown over the years, especially on clay courts.

The Russian is looking strong in the clay season this year and is yet to lose a match on clay. He has won five straight matches now after having a not-so-great hard-court season at a 13-8 win-loss record. With Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz still sidelined due to injuries and Novak Djokovic struggling to get back on top in the clay season, the Russian will be a strong contender for big titles including the French Open.

Rublev‘s win in Monte-Carlo marks his first tour-level title of the season and his biggest title to date. The victory has also helped him move up seven spots to fifth in the Pepperstone ATP Live Race to Turin.

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