Australian Open 2024: ‘It’s not for you to decide’ – Andrey Rublev reacts to umpire in heated exchange

Andrey Rublev fired back a response to the umpire in a somewhat strange exchange over how many balls he had at his end of the court at the Australian Open on Sunday.

The fifth seed, who is known for his passion and having his emotions on full display during his matches, engaged with the official between his serves at 2-2 at the start of the fourth set.

The tension was already ramped up as he sought a fast start to the set, having lost the previous one against the tough Brazilian, Thiago Seyboth Wild, on Margaret Court Arena.

Rublev, after having his speed between points flagged by the umpire, attempted to explain that he did not have enough balls at his end, and therefore, he could not serve any quicker.

“You start the shot clock when I do not have all the balls on my side,” he said. “No, she [the ball kid] was throwing the ball.”

The umpire responded: “You had enough balls.”

A point followed, after which Rublev walked over and continued the exchange.

“By the rules, I have to have six balls and it is not for you to decide!

“I’m not telling you how to call the out, so don’t tell me how many balls.”

Rublev eventually came through what turned out to be a classic encounter in five gruelling sets, winning 7-5 6-4 3-6 4-6 7-6 (6).

Rublev faces Taro Daniel or Christopher Eubanks in the second round.