The joker of the North Palmyra Trophies tournament, Alexander Bublik chose Lions today and defeated the "Sphinx" Roberto Bautista Agut 6/4, 3/6, 10-6. The overall score after the first day became equal - 1:1.

Many people gathered on Friday evening to support Alexander Bublik, who grew up in Gatchina. The almost full stands of the "Arena" sports complex admired the game of the 26-year-old tennis player and lively reacted to his successful actions and, of course, his signature remarks addressed to himself.

Bublik struggled to find his serve, hitting 15 aces but also making 13 double faults throughout the match. However, the hometown favorite started the match impressively and won the first set 6:4. In the second set, both Bublik and Bautista Agut faced challenges. The former 9th-ranked player in the world, Bautista Agut, managed to step up, ultimately winning the set. As for the championship tie-break, Bublik got into the right mindset: he skillfully placed shots close to the lines to the delight of the audience and team captains, building his lead in the score. He earned match points with a half-court shot along the line and jumped with joy. In the next play, he concluded the match in his favor.

«Firstly, I would like to thank the residents and guests of our beautiful city. It was very important for me to come to this tournament. As a kid I attended the St. Petersburg Open many times and it is sad this tournament is over. But North Palmyra Trophies is a good replacement», said Bublik in an interview after the match. «When you haven't played tennis for 24 days, it's hard to get into the game. Thanks to the audience for giving me strength. Svetlana Kuznetsova was not very pleased, but I promised her that I would step up in the tie-break – and it worked out in the end».

«But playing against Roberto is very tough. It felt like we were at the Masters in Indian Wells, not at an exhibition tournament in Saint Petersburg. He fought hard for every ball, didn't give me anything easily».