Bublik, ranked No 36, will play the winner of the match between Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas, the top seed, and Frenchman Arthur Fils, the No 4 seed, next.
Bublik taking relaxed approach to European Open
Tennis fans will know that Bublik is one of the more lively characters on the ATP Tour, and at times can struggle with his consistency. This week at the European Open, it seems the world No 36 is taking a more relaxed approach to his tennis.
“We were playing FIFA until 3am last night,” Bublik confessed during his on-court interview after defeating Marterer in the European Open semi-finals.
The 26-year-old went on to explain that all he’s seen of Antwerp this week has been his hotel room and the tennis courts, given his coaches infatuation with playing FIFA at the moment. However, he was still pleased to have made it through to tomorrow’s final, despite this potentially eating into his gaming time:
“Obviously when you’re in the finals you’re always happy. Of course I’m happy. [My game plan] worked out in crucial moments, so I’m happy with the win.”
The Kazakh won against Frenchman Gregoire Barrere (6-4, 6-2) and French qualifier Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard (6-4, 4-6, 6-2) ahead of his victory.
Earlier in the tournament, Marterer, ranked No 127, beat Frenchman Richard Gasquet, the No 7 seed (6-3, 6-4), Portuguese Nuno Borges (6-3, 7-6 (3)) and Frenchman Hugo Gaston (6-3, 6-2).