Defending Mutua Madrid Open champion Andrey Rublev progressed into the third round on Friday without having to step onto the court, benefiting from a walkover after Gael Monfils withdrew due to illness. Rublev, who recently defeated Monfils at the Rolex Monte Carlo Masters under new coach Marat Safin, faces significant pressure this week with 1,000 ranking points on the line. He needs another deep run at Caja Magica to maintain his Top 10 status.
Rublev’s next challenge comes from childhood friend Alexander Bublik, who overcame 25th seed Alexei Popyrin, 6-4, 7-6 (4), to set up their clash.
Meanwhile, last year’s finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime’s clay court woes continued as he was upset by Juan Manuel Cerundolo, 7-6 (5), 6-4. The No. 18 seed now holds an 0-3 record this month on the clay, putting him at risk of slipping out of the ATP Top 20—and possibly the Top 30—depending on upcoming results.
Cerundolo’s reward is a matchup against Daniil Medvedev, who, like Rublev, advanced without playing due to Laslo Djere’s withdrawal. Medvedev will be eager to capitalize on the opportunity and secure his place in the round of 16.
With Rafael Nadal’s notable absence this season, the ATP clay-court events have become increasingly unpredictable, opening doors for other competitors to make their mark.
