"I can show him the road but he needs to walk the road" - Marat Safin on what he expects from teaming up with Andrey Rublev

After joining the coaching staff of Andrey Rublev, former World No.1 Marat Safin spoke on some of his expectations from the young Russian during their time together.

Rublev had a poor start to the 2025 season, falling to Brazilian wonderkid Joao Fonseca in the opening round. Although the Russian bounced back by winning the Qatar Open a few months later, he would suffer a dip in form as he crashed out in the opening round in Dubai, Indian Wells and last week's Miami Open.

Following his Miami Open loss, it was announced that Rublev would begin working with retired compatriot and two-time Grand Slam champion Marat Safin. The duo have already begun to test their relationship, as Safin accompanied Rublev to the Ultimate Tennis Showdown event, where Rublev is often featured.

When asked what he brings to the table as Rublev's coach, Safin stated it all depends on how much the World No.9 was willing to work.

"Well it depends on him," began Safin. "I can show him the road but he needs to walk the road because it's not going to happen magically. You need to work your way and I think it's up to him.
"So let's see how it goes for the next couple of weeks but I think he is willing to do it. But for how long? I don't know, you'll have to ask him the questions."

Their gameplan will become more evident next week, when Rublev competes at the Monte-Carlo Masters ATP 1000 event.