Fernando
Vicente, Andrey Rublev’s coach, spoke about the Russian’s battle with
depression and mental health challenges. According to the Spanish coach, Rublev
attended therapy several times a week to seek help.
The world
No. 8 managed to finish the year in the top 10 for the fifth consecutive
season, despite a challenging year both on and off the court. The Russian often
displayed bouts of anger, breaking rackets and even facing disqualification at
the Dubai Open earlier this year. During the semifinals against Alexander
Bublik, Rublev yelled angrily at a ball kid, an outburst that led to his
disqualification.
Fernando Vicente discusses challenges on and off the court
The
27-year-old has frequently shown a fiery temperament on the court, though it
has occasionally spiraled out of control. A few months ago, Rublev openly
shared his struggles with mental health, a topic his coach Fernando Vicente
also touched on this time.
"We
tried to be close to him, to support him. We went to the psychologist three
times a week, where the conversation revolved around Rublev remembering where
he was when it all started and the heights he has managed to reach. This is a
normal situation. As a coach, I also face many problems throughout the
year," Vicente said.
The former
Spanish player has been working with Rublev since 2017 and has been
instrumental in his rise on the Tour. Vicente assessed the end of his protégé’s
season, acknowledging that some physical issues complicated Rublev’s
performance despite his immense motivation to compete.
"It's
been a crazy season. Before the Chinese swing, he had a problem with a
testicle. The doctor begged him not to go, but Andrey wanted to. Then he had a
problem in the abdominal area and could hardly serve," Vicente added.
"Andrey is crazy, in the good sense of the word. He always wants to train:
Monday, Saturday, Sunday, it doesn't matter. I have to kick him off the court.
I'm glad to train a player like that."
The coach
also addressed Rublev’s on-court behaviour, giving it a score of ‘4/10.’ "He
suffered a lot mentally and experienced behavioural problems. I would give his
behaviour on the court this year a four out of ten. We remember what happened
at the Dubai tournament when he was disqualified. Rublev could not cope with
the consequences of this," Vicente said.
Andrey Rublev is defaulted from the Dubai semi-final, sending Alexander Bublik through to the #DDFTennis final pic.twitter.com/tclfcXxDYY
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) March 1, 2024
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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