Alcaraz, after defeating Rublev: "The match was decided by details"

Andrés Tomás Rico | 16 Aug 2025 | 01.22

Alcaraz, after defeating Rublev: "The match was decided by details". Photo: Gettyimages

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Carlos Alcaraz pulled off a match that allows you to take a giant step forward for the rest of the tournament. The Spaniard had to face one of the best versions of Andrey Rublev, especially in the second set, where he didn't miss a single backhand and his first serve was almost impossible to return. Against another opponent, he would likely have secured the victory, but to beat the world number two, you have to finish him off twice.

The Spaniard accepted the challenging challenge that the Muscovite presented on the Central Court of ATP Cincinnati, did not back down against the Russian's attacks, and showed a very efficient and serious version to reach the semifinals of the American tournament, where he awaits Alexander Zverev or Ben Shelton. Speaking about the tough and even match played against Rublev, the mindset he displayed during the game, and the focus he demonstrated in crucial moments, he discussed in an interview with Tennis Channel.

Positive despite Rublev's storm

"Today I kept positive thoughts all the time, despite losing focus at some moments, and when you lose focus against a player like Rublev, it can cost you the match. When I served to win in the third set, I didn't play with my first serve, but at that moment, I kept strong and positive, and that's what I'm most proud of."

Grateful for living matches like this

"You have to accept the moment and that I was playing a third set and that it was going to be very difficult, especially under these conditions. But I love the energy of this court, the stands were amazing, and I love playing in these atmospheres because it makes me very happy to experience these moments."

Surprised by Rublev's outstanding first and second serves

"It was a very close match, decided by details. Rublev played an incredible match, especially with his first serve, but in previous matches, with his second serve being slower, I had more time to hit the ball better. However, today that second serve was faster than usual and it was more challenging to return."

Pleased with the tennis displayed to counteract the Russian's inspiration

"I am happy with the tennis I played, with the way I moved, and how I hit the ball against a great hitter like Rublev. I also stayed mentally strong and with positive thoughts, especially when I couldn't close the match with my serve."

Didn't falter when unable to close the match with his serve

"It's something that keeps me very focused. When this usually happens when closing a set or a match, I always try to stay positive and not let myself drift away from the match in those moments. One of my objectives before stepping on the court is to be 100% concentrated throughout the entire match, and that's one of the things I'm most proud of."

Won't miss the Zverev-Shelton match, where his opponent in the semifinals will emerge

"Of course, I will watch the match, not because my next opponent will come from there, but because it's an incredible duel. It's a match worth watching, and as a tennis fan, I will watch it. I love watching these types of matches."

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Alcaraz, tras vencer a Rublev: "El partido se decidió por detalles"