Rublev, never less than aggressive, never less than ambitious, had just played what in every other circumstance was the perfect winner, leaving his opponent stranded on the edge of the court. But ...

Rublev then serves his way to deuce. Alcaraz back to break point, forehand pummels through Rublev’s defences. Can’t take this either, forehand netted. Back to deuce. Alcaraz somehow finds the line ...