Alexander Bublik Ignores Opponent, Skips Handshake at Paris Masters
During the opening round of the Paris Masters, Alexander Bublik’s behavior sparked discussions among tennis fans when he neglected to shake hands with Alexei Popyrin. The 13th seed secured a straight-set victory, winning 6-4, 6-3, but opted for a more direct approach to the umpire’s chair after the match, avoiding the customary handshake.
Bublik vs. Popyrin: Match Highlights
The match featured notable moments, particularly in the second set. Bublik broke serve early, yet faced pressure when Popyrin fought back, breaking him in a thrilling rally. Popyrin’s celebration after breaking back, without an apology, may have influenced Bublik’s choice to skip the handshake.
- Match Duration: 1 hour and 14 minutes
- Winners Hit by Bublik: 31
- Unforced Errors by Bublik: 16
Bublik Reflects on His Performance
After the match, Bublik expressed ambivalence about his performance. He was pleased with the victory but admitted he hadn’t played at his best. “It’s about winning when you’re not feeling well, especially in a new venue,” he stated, noting the distinct atmosphere compared to earlier events in Bercy.
Bublik’s Season Overview
The 28-year-old has seen a remarkable resurgence in his career after dropping out of the top 80 earlier this year. Key highlights include:
- Finalist at the Phoenix Challenger
- Champion at the Turin Challenger
- Quarter-finalist at the French Open
- Title wins at Halle, Gstaad, Kitzbuhel, and Hangzhou
Currently ranked No. 16 globally, Bublik is now focused on maintaining his health as he aims for a top-10 ranking. “Staying healthy is key so I can play more events,” he noted, underscoring his commitment to well-being as he progresses through the tournament schedule, with his next competition taking place in Metz.
Goals for the Future
Bublik remains aware of the intense competition in professional tennis, especially as many players contend with injuries. He emphasized the need to seize opportunities when they arise. “If I stay healthy, I can play great tennis,” he concluded, elaborating on his strategy to manage his schedule effectively for optimal performance in critical matches.
In summary, while Alexander Bublik’s decision to skip the handshake with Alexei Popyrin raised eyebrows, his primary focus remains on refining his game and prioritizing his health as he advances through the Paris Masters and future tournaments.
