When Andrey Rublev was playing Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, he got into a heated argument with the umpire.
When the Spaniard was 3–4 down in the first set, a shot was called out, which he immediately challenged. However, confusion ensued when it was revealed that the ball had actually been called in, meaning he withdrew the appeal and the umpire gave him the point.
Rublev became enraged by this and informed umpire Adel Nour that hearing the call had interfered with his ability to return.
To Rublev’s dismay, Nour retorted, “We have to play; we don’t have a review.”
Rublev brought up Nadal’s altercation with umpire Fergus Murphy on Saturday at that point. The 22-time Grand Slam winner had halted action when he believed the ball was out, but he did not signal that he want to challenge.
“It is just the same as what happened to Rafa yesterday. I’m beginning to believe that there is no need for referees on the court—just machines. I am aware that I bring the game and I respect that. I will remain silent. But before I could take my shot, he called it.
Rublev’s interpretation was not one that Nour agreed with, as he responded, saying, “But this is what I’m trying to tell you. I received the call subsequent to your hitting the ball. I have to assess why it didn’t effect you.
Ultimately, it was of little consequence to Rublev, who prevailed 7-6 (10), 6-4.
He later addressed reporters, saying, “I feel sorry for Alejandro and I understand, there’s drama in every match we play.”
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