Russian tennis ace, Andrey Rublev is in great form especially after he won the Rotterdam Open a couple of days back. The World No.8 defeated the likes of former World No.1 Andy Murray, followed by Greek ace Stefanos Tsitsipas and then defeated Márton Fucsovics in the finals to win the ATP event.

Rublev is now gearing up to defend his title at the Qatar Open. After getting a first-round bye in the event the young Russian will face the veteran Richard Gasquet in the second round. Right before the encounter, Gasquet spoke about his opponent in interaction with Essentially Sports. The Frenchman praised the 23-year-old mainly because of his consistency.

Rublev has been in sublime form this season, he has won 13 out of the 14 matches this season and the only defeat came against his compatriot Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open quarterfinals. The win at Rotterdam became his fourth straight ATP 5000 tournament win which is fantastic for a youngster who is looking to challenge the top players in the world.

Gasquet feels that it is just a matter of time before Rublev becomes a Grand Slam winner again stressing on his consistency and also the energy that he brings to the court.

He is one of the best players in the world. He can win a Grand slam very soon. He won many many tournaments. So It’s been great of course. He won 4 or 5 of 500s so I know it will be tough for me but I have nothing to lose and I am sure I can do a great match and try to play the best I can,” said the 34-year old.

While Gasquet holds a high opinion of his opponent this is the first time both the players will meet each other and therefore Gasquet’s comments come as a surprise. However, just like Rotterdam, Rublev will again have to work his socks off to defend the title at Qatar.

The Russian is on the tougher side of the draw and if he goes past Gasquet he may face Stanislas Wawrinka and then Dominic Thiem in the semifinals followed by Swiss superstar Roger Federer in the finals, who is making a comeback after a long injury layoff. So it won’t be a cakewalk for the youngster.