Rublev makes official apology for “unacceptable” behaviour in Dubai default
The Russian said he had learned his lesson and would be better for it
Antoine Couvercelle / Panoramic
Russia’s Andrey Rublev has officially apologised for what he described as his “unacceptable” behaviour in Dubai last month, when he was defaulted in the semi-final.
Rublev was penalised for screaming in the face of an official, sending Alexander Bublik through to the final.
In a video on his Instagram feed, Rublev said he had wanted to apologise in the post-match press conference but did not have one on the night.
“I would like to apologise for my behaviour in Dubai because it’s unacceptable to yell or scream at anyone,” Rublev said. “Doesn’t matter who, a linesman or just a spectator and I’m really sorry for that.
“Doesn’t matter even if the guy is right or wrong, it is unacceptable. And I’m nobody and no one to do those things. And for sure I got a lesson and for sure I learned from it. Hopefully, everything is going to be OK and I’ll be a better player.”
Rublev was allowed to keep the ranking points and prize money he earned in Dubai after the ATP ruled that the default was punishment enough.
The world No 5 plays Andy Murray in the second round of the BNP Paribas Open on Friday.
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