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Both Ruud and Rublev had their weak moments and their opponents played great tennis, it didn't really look like their game is weaker than that of Ruud and Rublev, but in the end what really counts is to score the right points in the perfect moments of the game. That often sets those top players apart from those who play great, but not as successful. Both the Spaniard and Baez lost some points that were crucial to the endgame that they have scored before. That is when the mental part comes into play even more.
The primary aspect that holds immense importance in every sport is maintaining composure. Rudd and Rublev were able to keep calm even when they were under pressure. And that is why they were able to win the matches, even when their opponent was actually quite good. Oftentimes, the mentality of a player is what sets them apart from others. Being mentally stoic is a really great attribute to have for any human being. Any player who can stay mentally strong, and believe that he can make a comeback even from the most impossible of situations, he will have a better chance to win the match.
Yes, Rublev seems very determined and focused lately. He managed to keep his focus in Bastad, he was trying really hard to do his best and was really disappointed by mistakes (slamming the net, swearing etc...) which shows his attitude towards the game. It has improved significantly in the last month or so. What could be the reason for this? Some changes in his team perhaps?
I mean you could tell from a lot of things that he is putting more effort into focus and also into not giving up on a game early. That is what makes me mad when I see talented tennis players who have already been ranked no. 1 in the ATP ranking and then they behave as if they feel pissed and play the game after they are a break down as if they would prefer to walk off the court and take a shower. It is weird because as someone who follows sports one would think that they should enjoy their talent and try to come back when they are behind, love the competition and give their best while being paid millions. But no, sometimes a few of them just choose to throw away a game because they refuse to handle their emotions. Zverev is also like that. Kyrgios, Medvedev.
Not controlling the emotion of a player is always going to be detrimental for his career. A lot of players actually do not understand that. It is best to actually control your emotion when things are going bad. That is going to make the opponent think that this is not affecting him negatively. And that is instantly going to make him psychologically superior compared to his appointment. So every player should know how to control his emotions.