Alexander Bublik has made history after his recent ATP title win.
The Kazakhstani tennis player battled well to claim silverware in Montpellier, winning the Open Sud de France.
It marks just his fourth singles title, and has seen him reach a new career-high ranking of 23.
But what did the 26-year-old do that was so special throughout his run to the title? We take a closer look…
What did Alexander Bublik do that was so special?
As one of the sport’s most enigmatic characters, for Bublik to do the spectacular and never-before-seen is not actually a surprise anymore.
But, to create history on his way to a title is new territory, and one which many fans were delighted to watch.
Ironically so, the manner of his record-breaking triumph is actually owed to the chaotic performances he is so often guilty of.
In claiming victory over Borna Coric in the final, 7-5, 2-6, 3-6, he became the first-ever ATP singles player to win a title despite losing the first set in every single match he faced.
Such an unforeseen ability to overcome adversity is a newfound trait for Bublik, but one which will come in handy as he seeks to enjoy a standout 2024 after an indifferent 2023 where he never really threatened.
A big year for Alexander Bublik…
Claiming a title so early on in the season could go a long way towards making this a year to remember for the jovial star.
After all, a strong 2024 would go a long way towards achieving that financial security that he craves, having hilariously admitted back in 2020: ‘I hate tennis with all my heart. To be honest, I don’t see something positive in being a tennis player. I only play for money. If there was no money, I would stop playing tennis instantly.’
This attitude towards the sport naturally lends to his laissez-faire playing style, as he swans about the court with immense unpredictability.
Despite that, he still boasts some huge weapons which would trouble most on the tour, with a thunderous first serve and that ability to always do the unexpected. Great British star Jack Draper even supported this after his win earlier this year.
This win in Montpellier only further emphasises that, whilst also lending towards the notion that he might have now acquired a mindset worthy of turning these assets into tangible titles.
If so, it could be a big year for Bublik, who may well come good on that promise of retirement should he maintain this kind of form.
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