Alexei Popyrin’s unexpected triumph at the National Bank Open came as a shock to many tennis enthusiasts. The No. 62-ranked player in the world defied all odds by defeating the fifth-seeded Andrey Rublev in a thrilling 6-2, 6-4 victory. This win marked the biggest singles title of Popyrin’s career, a remarkable feat for a player with only two lower-level ATP Tour titles under his belt prior to this tournament.
Popyrin’s path to victory was nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout the week, he faced a series of formidable opponents, including five top-20 players in a row. From his win against No. 11 seed Ben Shelton to his epic showdown with Rublev in the finals, Popyrin showcased his tenacity and skill on the court. Saving three match points against Grigor Dimitrov and staging a comeback against Hubert Hurkacz are just a couple of examples of his resilience and determination.
Popyrin’s dominance on the court was evident from the very beginning. Winning the first seven points of the match set the tone for the rest of the game. His ability to maintain a high level of play consistently throughout the tournament was truly impressive. Popyrin’s seamless execution of his game plan, combined with his unwavering focus and composure, allowed him to outmatch his opponents and secure the victory.
In addition to his prowess on the court, Popyrin’s display of emotional maturity was commendable. Known for his temperamental outbursts in the past, Popyrin demonstrated a newfound sense of calm and poise during the tournament. In contrast, Rublev, who has also struggled with on-court emotions, found himself unable to match Popyrin’s composure. However, Rublev acknowledged his progress in managing his emotions and identified areas for improvement in his mental game.
With this significant victory, Popyrin’s ranking is set to rise from No. 62 to No. 23, a testament to his exceptional performance at the National Bank Open. As he looks to build on this success and continue his upward trajectory in the world of professional tennis, Popyrin’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere. His remarkable rise from underdog to champion is a reminder of the power of perseverance, skill, and self-belief in achieving greatness in sport.