Rublev Handles Thiem In Melbourne Opener
At the Australian Open on Tuesday, Andrey Rublev triumphed in their sixth consecutive ATP H2H matchup after deftly navigating a challenging opening-round draw.
The fifth seed used a tried-and-true strategy to win 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 by dominating the match with his thunderous forehand and serve.
In his first Australian Open since 2021, Thiem displayed strong competition, although he was defeated by late breaks in each of the opening two sets. In the final set, which he dominated from the outset, Rublev left no room for doubt after saving the only two break points he faced in the second set.
It's never simple when you realise you have to compete against Dominic, according to Rublev. Additionally, we have a close friendship. I simply want to wish him the best and hope that he may return to his rightful place as soon as possible because I know he's going through a terrible moment.
Rublev was especially happy that the match was completed in a timely two hours and ten minutes despite the oppressively hot circumstances in John Cain Arena.
After he fired 33 wins in the triumph, he stated, "I'm extremely delighted that I was able to win in straight sets to preserve some energy for the next match. It's incredibly hot today.
In the second round, Max Purcell from Australia or Emil Ruusuvuori are waiting for Rublev. Rublev, who has reached the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam tournament six times, is attempting to go farther in his 17th major tournament.
As he continues his recovery from wrist surgery in 2021, Thiem, who advanced to the Australian Open final in 2020, enters this year's competition as a wild card. He has now lost seven straight matches versus players ranked in the top 10, with his most recent victory coming at the 2020 Nitto ATP Finals.
Earlier on Tuesday, 27th seed Grigor Dimitrov defeated Aslan Karatsev by scores of 7-6(3), 7-5, and 6-2 to win his Melbourne campaign. Former Australian Open semifinalists Dmitrov (2017) and Karatsev (2021) square off in this clash.
Bulgarian saved the only break point he faced while serving 15 aces.The winner of the contest between Laslo Djere and qualifier Zizou Bergs will face Dimitrov.
