“Can Win a Grand Slam Soon”: Richard Gasquet Hails Andrey Rublev Ahead of 2021 Qatar Open Match

World No.8 Andrey Rublev has been one of the most consistent players on the tour over the last year. Recently, Rublev won the 2021 Rotterdam Open by defeating the likes of Andy Murray, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Márton Fucsovics en route the title.

The 23-year-old now enters the Qatar Open with an aim of defending his title. Seeded No.3, Rublev received a first-round bye and now faces World No.50 Richard Gasquet in the second round of the tournament.

Gasquet showers praise of Andrey Rublev

Ahead of their showdown, Gasquet spoke to EssentiallySports in an interview to talk about his next opponent. The 2013 US Open semifinalist hailed Rublev’s consistent performances on having won multiple events over the last year.

After his title win at Rotterdam, Rublev clinched his fourth straight ATP 500 tournament and has won 13 out of his 14 matches the season. With the sole exception being his loss to Daniil Medvedev in the quarterfinals of the 2021 Australian Open.

Hence, Gasquet believes Rublev has the firepower to win a Grand Slam soon. However, Frenchman is looking forward to the match and feels he has nothing to lose.

“He is one of the best players in the world. He can win a Grand slam very soon. He won many many tournaments. So It’s been great of course. He won 4 or 5 of 500s so I know it will be tough for me but I have nothing to lose and I am sure I can do a great match and try to play the best I can,” said Gasquet.

Notably, it will the first time Gasquet will face off against Rublev as their current head-to-head record stands at 0-0. In order to defend his title at the Qatar Open, Rublev has a tough draw ahead.

The Russian is most likely to face Stan Wawrinka in the quarterfinals, Dominic Thiem in the semifinals, and the Swiss Maestro Roger Federer in the finals of the tournament.