Andre Agassi has taken an interest in Alexander Bublik’s game. Could the short, sweet partnership pay dividends for Bublik down the road?
Chris OddoSeptember 24, 20262 minute read
Alexander Bublik has never lacked weapons, imagination or creativity. Andre Agassi would like to see him use them a little differently.
Speaking at Laver Cup on Thursday, eight-time major champion and Team World Captain Agassi offered a fascinating glimpse into how he views one of tennis’ most mercurial talents – and what he believes Bublik might be capable of if he can find more efficient ways to win.
For Agassi, the question isn’t about Bublik’s breathtaking talents that range from enormous serve to his wizardly hands and incredible touch. It’s whether the world No.21 is consistently making the decisions that allow him to maximize his considerable gifts.
“When I look at Sascha, I look at a guy and say, if you give me his game, I’m sorry, I’m not maximizing unless I’m having a say at the end of a lot of tournaments,” Agassi said.
Agassi sees Bublik’s versatility and unpredictability as genuine assets, but believes there is another gear available if Bublik can marry said assets with what he referred to as “controlled aggression.”
“There’s a lot to be said for controlled aggression when your body blows can hurt a player and you’re not even taking a risk with the swing,” Agassi said. “So somewhere in between that pendulum is his answer.”
An intriguing breakdown of a player who has often lived off his ability to improvise, create and produce the unexpected. Perhaps he has relied on it too much? Agassi's point was that Bublik's success while playing his relatively unhinged brand of tennis actually demonstrates just how good he is.
Bublik doesn't always need to walk the tightrope, says Agassi. “While you can live in a high-wire act and get away with it, it only speaks to how good you are,” Agassi said. “Let’s also remember there are six other ways to win a tennis match.”
Agassi even got on Bublik about– his chip forehand return during practice — Bublik joked that he “got shit for it” after using the shot twice — another indication that the highly respected Hall of Famer is keeping a keen eye on Bublik.
For Bublik, a week around Agassi could prove particularly useful. Rather than trying to change what makes him such a unique player, Agassi appears interested in helping him recognize that he can lean on the percentages a little more – and a little more effectively.
“When I see somebody who’s trying to be perfect when it’s not necessary,” Agassi said, “I’d just like them to remember how good they are.”
