Carlos Alcaraz remained on the Cincinnati Masters title course after ousting Andrey Rublev 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 in two hours and 17 minutes. The Russian played well and pushed the Spaniard to the limits.
However, world no. 2 kept his composure despite a couple of loose moments, enjoying his game and finding a way through in the pivotal moments of the duel.
Positive thoughts and mental strength pushed the five-time Major winner over the top and into another Masters 1000 semi-final. On Saturday, Alcaraz will face Alexander Zverev.
ALCARAZ A SEMIS!
Esas dos dobles faltas mataron a Rublev, en el último juego.
Para mí, el mejor partido de lo que llevamos de torneo.
El grito final de Carlitos, muestra de lo igualado y la tensión que había. pic.twitter.com/Ep01l5wbV0
— José Morón (@jmgmoron) August 15, 2025
Rublev made a slow start but fought well after that. The Russian hit the ball nicely and never gave up. He made a late break before losing serve in the decisive moment.
The Spaniard claimed only three points more than his rival. He lot serve two times from as many chances presented to Andrey and provided four breaks in sets one and three to emerge at the top.
“I kept positive thoughts all the time despite losing focus at some moments. When you lose focus against someone like Andrey, it can cost you the match. I could not find my first serve when I served for the win at 5-3 in the third.
However, I stayed strong and positive, and I’m proud of that. Playing a decider is always difficult, but I love playing in these atmospheres because it makes me very happy. It was a very tight match, decided by a couple of details.
Andrey played an incredible match, especially with his first serve. He also increased the pace on his second serve, which was not the case before. I’m happy with how I played, moved and hit the ball.
I stayed mentally strong and kept positive thoughts when I could not serve out for the win. When those setbacks happen, I try not to let myself drift away and lose ground,” Carlos Alcaraz said.
