“Incredible Level and High Intensity”: Andrey Rublev Expresses Admiration for Dominic Thiem

World No. 8 Russia’s Andrey Rublev ended with most titles on the ATP Tour in 2020. For the first Slam of 2021, he will train with World No. 3 Austria’s Dominic Thiem during quarantine in Melbourne Park.

Both Thiem and Rublev, showed great promise in their professional career last year. The Austrian claimed his maiden Grand Slam, while the Russian claimed 5 titles and the most wins in 2020 (41). He was equal with Novak Djokovic in this stat.

The two Top 10 players are now looking forward to bringing out the best in each other ahead of the Australian Open. Rublev believes that even spectators would like to watch their training sessions.

World No. 1 Serbia’s Djokovic and compatriot Filip Krajinovic will join Thiem and Rublev after two weeks in Australia. To train with the record-holder at the Australian Open, Djokovic, is definitely a great advantage for them.

Rublev on training sessions with Dominic Thiem

Among their 5 matches, Rublev holds an advantage at 3-2.  Interestingly, Thiem won their first two encounters but has failed in the last three in straight sets.

However, as far as training goes, the Russian has found his perfect match in the Austrian. So much so that Rublev considers their sessions as great to watch events.

“Dominic Thiem is one of the players that I like to train with the most. We have training sessions at an incredible level and with high intensity,” the Russian said.

He continued, “If spectators were allowed to watch training sessions as before, they’d like them a lot. We have high speed, the ball is in play for a long time, we relish how everything turns out. I am certain that it would be great to watch such a training session.”

Apart from training and tennis, the Russian has also got a liking of Thiem’s character. Rublev added, “He [Dominic] is also a very good guy, friendly and kind.”

Read More: How Dominic Thiem Can Win His Second Grand Slam at Australian Open 2021

Thiem and Rublev’s chances at Australian Open 2021

Last year’s finalist at Melbourne Park, Thiem would love to win his second Slam. In his defense, he is now confident enough to put in everything to achieve his target.

Rublev, who hasn’t had so much luck in big tournaments, will look to change that this year. He is, indeed, one of the best next-generation players in tennis.

Thiem and Rublev are always ready to compete at their highest level. Therefore, it will not be wise to bet against the two in the next season. Who are you betting on to have a prime 2021 ATP season?

WATCH: Dominic Thiem Sweating It Out for Second Grand Slam Title