Hubert Hurkacz Champion In Shanghai!

Hubert Hurkacz defeated world no. 7 Andrey Rublev to become a Masters 1000 Champion again at the Shanghai Masters event. Hurkacz solidified his status as a masterclass server with insane serve quality throughout the tournament. He is also a truly amazing defender and movement for a player of his height.

© Shanghai Rolex Masters 2023

Hurkacz overcame in-form Rublev in a 3-set thriller with a tie-break in the deciding set, winning 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(8) which took 2 hours and 9 minutes. He fired 21 aces and won 81% of his first serves in the whole match to capture his second Master 1000 title. This win takes Hurkacz ahead in their head 2 head meetings; he now leads 3-2 against Andrey Rublev. 

Rublev did not drop a set before the finals at this tournament and was also looking to win his second Masters 1000 title. Unfortunately, despite the amazing performance through the tournament he was unable to convert the championship point to get the finish he wanted against the Pole. 

The players are looking forward to qualifying for the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin. Rublev who is sitting fifth on the Pepperstone ATP Live Race To Turin should be qualifying next if no other player moves ahead while Hurkacz is ranked 11 and is just 335 points behind the no. 8 spot Holger Rune. Hurkacz stands a good chance if he wins a few more matches before the Nitto ATP Finals in mid November!