Andrey Rublev won his third ATP title of the season on Sunday, defeating world no. 1 Novak Djokovic and a boisterous Serbian audience to win the Serbia Open for the first time.
After defeating Novak Djokovic in the final of the 2022 Serbia Open, Andrey Rublev has now tied Rafael Nadal's record of three tour-level triumphs in 2022, after victories in Marseille and Dubai in February.
He dropped only one set in eliminating Jiri Lehecka, Taro Daniel, and Fabio Fognini on his road to the final in Belgrade.
Prior to the final meeting, the Russian wanted to only enjoy the final match, and he certainly did, as he proved to be the better player over the tree sets played, especially in the third set which he won 6-0.
It doesn't happen every day that you beat some of the Big Three 6-0, and for Rublev it will be certainly one of the most memorable moments in his tennis career. After the final, he spoke on the court, addressing the Serbian.
"It is big to play against you and share the court for the second time. I hope we have more battles. I feel so great here, it is a very nice city. It feels really special."
Moreover, the Russian was thankful to the spectators in the Serbian capital, who have created a unique atmosphere, mostly because it was their home hero who was battling for the title at the ATP 250 tournament.
For Rublev, it's great to see fans in the stands again, after almost two years when the athletes had to play in front of empty stands because of various safety measures and rules.
"I want to say a big thanks to all the spectators for supporting all the players all week. To see full crowds again is special for all of us."