Yesterday, in the second round of the French Open, the world’s sixth-ranked player, Andrey Rublev, faced the 35th-ranked Italian, Matteo Arnaldi, on the Suzanne Lenglen court.
Rublev’s performance was undeniably lackluster. The first set went to a tiebreak, which the Italian clinched, and Arnaldi confidently secured the next two sets.
This struggle provoked visible frustration from the sixth seed, who did not mask his emotions. Known for his lack of restraint, Rublev’s behavior reached new heights. He smashed his racket on the court and his knee, waved it in the air, shouted at his coach, addressed the fans, and appealed to the umpire.
These outbursts did nothing to aid Rublev, and after a match lasting just over two and a half hours, he exited the French Open.
Such conduct from the world’s sixth-ranked player incited outrage among fans online. One commented:
“Andrey Rublev’s anger on court is unacceptable and should not be tolerated.”
Another remarked:
“This is simply abnormal behavior.”
There was also commentary on the recurring nature of Rublev’s antics:
“After the incident in Dubai, he said he would change his behavior. Not a bit of change.”
Many advised Rublev to seek psychological help:
“This guy needs serious psychological assistance. He’s entirely unfit for any sport. He should be banned.”
Additionally:
“It’s 2024. I thought we understood the importance of mental health by now.”
Meanwhile, Matteo Arnaldi will next face the world’s ninth-ranked player, Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas.
