Andrey Rublev beats Jacks Draper, lifts Doha title for the second time

Andrey Rublev bested Jack Draper in the final of the Qatar Open at Doha on Saturday. The Russian registered a 7-5, 5-7, 6-1 win against the Brit to win his second title in Doha. Rublev smashed 34 winners to claim his 17th ATP Tour title. It was his first tour-level title since he won the ATP Masters 1000 in Madrid last May.

The 27-year-old brought his best to court and took the first set after breaking his opponent’s serve in the 12th game. But, the lefty bounced back in the second after breaking Rublev’s serve in the 11th game.

However, Rublev took the final set convincingly by 6-1 to go all the way in the tournament. Rublev was delighted with the win and said he played at a good level.

“It feels amazing,” said Rublev. “It’s my first ever title that I won twice.. I’m really happy. I think both of us were really tired after two three-set matches that finished late. We were exhausted and it was difficult, but somehow we were able to play at a good level. When I lost the second set, I let it go and started to play more freely.

“I played at a good level. In some moments, I was really good mentally and didn’t let frustration get over me. As soon as I was frustrated, I was able to restart again and I was able to play at the same intensity. That’s the most important thing.”

On the other hand, Draper will take the career-high ranking of 12 after making the final in Doha. The Brit admitted Rublev was too good for him in the final set but he is trying to improve his game with every passing day.

“It’s been an amazing week,” said Draper. “Andrey was too good today. We played some tough matches this week and in the third set he was just a bit too strong for me. I’m really proud of my efforts this week. Every day, I wake up and try to improve, so it’s a testament to my hard work I suppose.”

Rublev will next take part in the Dubai Tennis Championship.