Navratilova's advice for Rublev that could win him his first Title

Martina Navratilova expressed serious concern about Andrey Rublev‘s outbursts following his latest meltdown at the US Open. During a gruelling five-set match against Grigor Dimitrov on September 1, Rublev suffered a 6-3, 7-6(3), 1-6, 3-6, 6-3 defeat inside the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The incident occurred when Dimitrov was leading 4-1. Frustrated, Rublev proceeded to repeatedly smash his shoes with his racket and then violently hit his wrist with it, resulting in a hand injury that required medical assistance.

Also read: World Number 6 Andrey Rublev Inflicts Self-Harm after another Temper Outbreak

Navratilova's advice for Rublev

Navratilova urged Rublev to save his energy by hitting “tennis balls and not his head.” Martina Navratilova thinks that Andrey Rublev is repeating the same mistakes over and over again and is hurting himself in all possible ways, that is, physically, mentally and emotionally. She said - 

"He beats himself and the negative energy just cannot be helpful. He just keeps making the same mistake over and over again. You are worried for him. Come on, just get it together. You are only hurting himself, literally physically and emotionally."

Navratilova is positive about Rublev's chances to win a Grand Slam and in an interview with Sky Sports she stated -

"He’s got the game to win a major, I believe that. He’s got the big serve, the big forehand and he just needs to improve his net game a little." 

Dimitrov played the game of his life

Before the US Open, Rublev struggled with his emotions during his matches at the Wimbledon and French Open. Unfortunately, his defeat at the US Open marks Dimitrov’s first quarterfinal appearance since 2019. The ninth-seed from Bulgaria, who is yet to win a Grand Slam title, will now compete against home favourite Frances Tiafoe. Dimitrov’s best performance at the US Open was in 2019 when he reached the semifinals.

Also read: Former World Number 1 Andy Murray Takes a Dig at Scheduling Of US Open