"You cannot compare me to Carlos in any way. Don’t disrespect Carlos" - Alexander Bublik shrugs off Alcaraz comparisons despite impressive displays on court

Alexander Bublik quickly shut down claims that he was on the same level as Carlos Alcaraz after defeating Taylor Fritz 7-6(5), 6-2 to reach the Paris Masters quarter-finals for the first time.

After a remarkably tense first set, in which Bublik survived four set points from the American, he was able to take the first one that came to him to snatch an ominous lead. He continued with this form, winning the last four games of the match to seal an impressive victory to prolong his positive form.

"I think I played well. The most important thing is that I used the chances I had," Bublik said after the match in an interview with the Tennis Channel. "He gave me a couple of shots that he usually doesn’t miss, and I took advantage of them. So I’m really happy with the performance."

Bublik was very realistic when he commented on his pre-match thoughts. He was set to face the world number four who has won two titles and made a Grand Slam semi-final. However, as the match went on Bublik's confidence arose, and he would go on to take Fritz down.

"When you go up against someone who’s No. 4 in the world at the end of the season, you don’t expect to win the match," Bublik said. "So I thought, 'Okay, what can I do?' I can serve, stay in the rally, and hope for the best. That’s what I did. Then I started feeling maybe he wasn’t feeling well — maybe he missed certain backhands that he usually doesn’t miss — maybe he wasn’t comfortable on court. I don’t know. So I just executed at the right moments and hit the right shots."

Aside from Alcaraz (8) no one in 2025 has won more titles than Bublik. Joint with the the world number two Jannik Sinner on four, it has been a hugely impressive year for the 28-year-old, who currently sees himself propelled into a new career-high ranking of 13th in the world. If he wins the tournament, he will make his debut in the top 10. This has led him to receive comparisons with six-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz. Despite these honorary claims, Bublik instantly rebuffed them.

"No — but first of all, you cannot compare me to Carlos in any way. Don’t disrespect Carlos," Bublik said. "I’ve liked him since he was 16 years old, playing on a side court in Australia. Don’t disrespect him like that. But yes, obviously, I’ve become better at choosing my shots. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be winning matches this often or staying consistent throughout the season. Since April, I’ve been fairly consistent, and I hope to continue the same way."

It does not get much easier for Bublik in the last-eight, where he faces world number six Alex de Minaur, who recently confirmed his return to the ATP Finals. Bublik senses an opportunity of his own to reach the prestigious event for a maiden time, but for now has his eyes focused on breaking into the top 10.

"It’s a challenge. We’re facing a guy who’s had a stellar season — he’s already qualified for Turin, so he’s in top form. He’s looking to get his highest ranking; I looked at the Race, and if he wins the tournament or makes the semis or finals, he’ll reach his best ranking. Same for me — I’m looking to get closer to the top 10, to get as close as possible to the Nitto Finals. Maybe, you never know, if someone pulls out, I could be an alternate."