Andrey Rublev’s frustrations boiled over in a major way at the 2024 French Open.
The 26-year-old suffered a shock third round exit in Paris following a straight sets defeat to Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi.
It was a disaster for Rublev on Court Suzanne Lenglen as he struggled to find his best game and keep his emotions in check.
His meltdown contributed to his surprise defeat as the Madrid Open winner’s wait for a first Grand Slam title continues.
Tennis fans are in agreement after witnessing Andrey Rublev’s French Open meltdown
Rublev yelled at himself multiple times during the match and his box as he tried to find his best tennis. In other shocking scenes, the sixth seed slammed his racket to the ground and even kicked his chair several times as jeers reigned down from the crowd.
The player even inflicted pain on himself as he hit his racket against his knee as he struggled to control his anger.
Fans who witnessed the outbursts were in agreement as X user @Paisano said: “You would think after all of the breakthroughs and successes he has experienced like finally winning a Masters 1000 trophy that this would all go away. Back to the drawing board it seems.”
@DaithiMacConrai wrote: “He is such a talented player and seems to be a nice guy off court. Hopefully he can get the necessary help to manage these episodes and maximise his potential in a healthy manner.”
@ian_icphotos posted: “Sad to watch. Such a gifted player but totally unnecessary actions. I hope he gets help. Congrats to Arnaldi,” while @Sport47465366 wrote: “Has to get this sorted out if he ever wants to win Majors.”
What did Andrey Rublev say about his actions at the French Open?
During the defeat to Arnaldi, Rublev was also involved in an intense exchange with the chair umpire after he disagreed with a line call.
Despite pleading his case, the call stood and this further agitated the World number six during one of the most disappointing days in his tennis career.
Post-match Rublev expressed some regret with his behaviour. “Completely disappointed with myself the way I behaved, the way I performed, and I don’t remember behaving worse on a Slams ever,” he said. “I think it was the first time I ever behaved that bad. Not much to say.
“I think it’s because the way I behave I put myself completely down, and I gave Matteo wings to fly, and he was flying in the third set, unbelievable. It was too late to do something.”
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