The Russian put on a solid performance at the event, winning all his three group stage matches. He was slated to face tournament founder Novak Djokovic in the final, but Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov tested positive for COVID-19 and the event was cancelled.

In an interview with Sport-Expert Russia, Rublev spoke about Djokovic's reaction behind-the-scenes. "He was very upset because of this whole situation, he organized everything, and no one wanted it to happen. He and his team have apologized to everyone many times." Rublev revealed. Borna Coric, Viktor Troicki and Djokovic himself all tested positive for the virus following the tournament.

The Serbian has received much backlash for hosting the event during that time, although it was done in accordance with the health authorities. Nonetheless, Rublev believes that what happened at the Adria Tour would not negatively impact the restart of the ATP season in August.

"There were no such fears, because it was an exhibition tournament. Yes, and I think such stories cannot be avoided in the future, even when the tour starts, because if you take into account the examples of other sports that have already resumed, then there still someone gets sick.

But despite this, the matches still continue and the sport continues. Therefore, I think that in tennis at first it will not be possible to avoid new infections." Rublev said.