Tennis professional Alexander Bublik has reportedly secured £118,000 for just two hours of training with Carlos Alcaraz, the world’s top-ranked player. Despite the significant earnings, Bublik has openly expressed his disdain for the sport, claiming he “hates” the daily grind of tennis.
At 28 years old, Bublik is experiencing a pivotal moment in his career, marking his debut at the ATP Finals held in Turin. As the first alternate, he stands ready to step in should any player withdraw during the group stage. The role comes with a guaranteed payment of £118,000 simply for being present at the event.
During a training session at the Inalpi Arena, Bublik faced off against Alcaraz, who managed to outplay him. Yet, the outcome may hold little significance for Bublik, who has made headlines in the past for his candid remarks regarding his feelings towards tennis.
Bublik has previously stated, “I hate every day I have to play. To be honest, I don’t see any positive aspect to being a tennis player. I only play for money.” His comments highlight a complex relationship with the sport, where financial motivation appears to outweigh passion.
With reported career earnings nearing £5 million, Bublik’s financial incentives are clear. The ATP Finals offer substantial rewards, including a staggering £3.8 million for the undefeated champion. Each of the eight participants is guaranteed £252,000, and winnings for each group stage victory increase to £302,000. Reaching the final would yield an additional £900,000.
Bublik’s comments have not only drawn attention but also sparked discussions about the nature of professional sports. He once quipped in response to fellow player Jannik Sinner about their earnings, saying, “Like Jannik Sinner said, ‘Money is not the thing.’”
Yet, in a subsequent interview, Bublik addressed the media’s portrayal of his statements. “The media has been doing it wrong many times. With my speeches, sometimes they take my words out of context,” he explained. He clarified that his earlier remarks stemmed from a period when he was struggling to enjoy the sport.
Reflecting on his journey, Bublik expressed a renewed sense of purpose. He recalled childhood dreams of emulating tennis legends such as Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. “When I was growing up, I was standing in front of the mirror wearing Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer clothes dreaming of playing in arenas,” he shared.
As time has passed, Bublik’s outlook on tennis has shifted. He now acknowledges his love for the game, stating, “I definitely enjoy and love playing tennis.”
Bublik’s experience at the ATP Finals serves as a reminder of the financial dynamics within professional sports, where substantial earnings can coexist with personal discontent. As he navigates this pivotal moment in his career, the balance between passion and profit remains a central theme in his narrative.
