What are you thinking?
Andrey Rublev faced a tough test against France’s Arthur Rinderknech, ranked 56 in the world, at the US Open. The match stretched well beyond four hours and spilled across five sets with a final scoreline of 4:6, 5:7, 6:1, 6:2, 6:2. This contest showcased Rublev’s resilience as he fought back after a pair of tight opening sets, demonstrating his ability to adjust tactics midmatch. Rinderknech, competing with aggression and consistency, kept the pace high and challenged Rublev with powerful serves and smart baseline play. The opening two sets went to the French player, who found success with precise shots and varied returns, forcing Rublev into defensive rallies. The momentum shifted dramatically in the third set, where Rublev rediscovered his rhythm, reeling off a dominant 6:1 set that amplified the pressure on his opponent.
From that point onward Rublev carried the momentum, deploying deeper, more piercing groundstrokes and mixing in well-timed drop shots to disrupt Rinderknech’s rhythm. The fourth set saw Rublev seize control with a series of aggressive, clean winners, moving ahead with confidence. In the fifth set, Rublev maintained steady serving and continued to punishingly target the corners, sealing the match with a straightforward 6:2 clinch that reflected his improved endurance and strategic clarity as the match wore on. The clash highlighted the importance of mental fortitude, physical conditioning, and tactical flexibility in modern tennis, especially in the best of five format at major tournaments. Fans witnessed a display of grit on the big stage, where a player can erase early disadvantages through disciplined defense, timely aggression, and flawless execution under pressure.
This encounter underscored Rublev’s ability to rebound after early setbacks, turning a challenging start into a late surge that demonstrated his growth in consistency and execution. It was a reminder that grand slam battles often hinge on one or two pivotal moments, and the player who maintains composure during those moments often reaps the reward. For supporters in North America, the match served as a compelling showcase of high-level tennis, blending power, precision, and strategic variety in a riveting evening session. The result added another chapter to Rublev’s pursuit of deep runs in major championships, while Rinderknech left the court with a performance that reinforced his capability to challenge elite opponents on this stage.