Alexander Bublik’s Controversial Remarks
In a controversial outburst, Alexander Bublik has voiced strong discontent with doubles players, suggesting that they are not genuine competitors in tennis. His remarks come in the wake of the 2025 US Open’s mixed doubles format, which was adjusted to feature high-profile singles players over two days during the fan week, held on August 19 and 20. This strategic change was made to draw top singles athletes into the event, although some, including Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka, opted out, and Coco Gauff also did not participate.
Success of the Revamped Format
Despite this, the revamped format showcased several renowned stars and proved to be a significant success. However, the rising controversy surrounding the respect afforded to doubles players gained further traction following the victory of the team comprising Sara Errani, a seasoned doubles player who earned an Olympic Gold Medal alongside Jasmine Paolini, and Andrea Vavassori. Their triumph was perceived by the doubles community as a compelling argument for the specialist’s merit in the sport, showcasing that it is not a mere trivial endeavor for singles players to transition and dominate in doubles.
Bublik’s Critique of Doubles Players
However, Bublik’s comments sharply contradict this perspective. In an interview with journalist Ben Rothenberg, he did not hold back, labeling doubles players as impostors in the tennis arena. He remarked,
“The [doubles] guys that are sitting there and pretend like they’re tennis players? No. That’s why a lot of singles players are mocking them and laugh, because this is just a joke.”
This sentiment marks a notable escalation in Bublik’s candid nature, as it is a stark departure from any previous critiques he has made regarding doubles players.
Impact of Recent Experiences
Bublik’s viewpoint may have been influenced by his recent experience at the US Open, where he partnered with Marcelo Demoliner, a doubles specialist, resulting in a disappointing loss to Fernando Romboli and John-Patrick Smith with scores of 3-6, 2-6. This prompted Demoliner to issue a pointed critique of Bublik’s performance, alleging he displayed a lack of commitment during their match. Demoliner expressed,
“The life of a tennis player has this big challenge of trying to find a partner… but today, the result hurts a lot, not because of the loss itself, but because of the feeling of a lack of attitude and commitment.”
Future of Doubles Partnerships
The severity of Bublik’s statements raises questions about the future of partnerships between singles and doubles players, notably in light of the potential tensions stirred by his harsh criticism. Should Bublik’s sentiments persist, the landscape of player collaborations in doubles may experience some significant shifts moving forward.
Bublik’s comments continue to spark debate within the tennis community regarding the respect and recognition that doubles specialists receive in a sport that often prioritizes singles achievements.
