Andrey Rublev: From Tennis to Fashion with a Purpose
By Luce Martini, Racquet Magazine NY
Torino, Nitto ATP Finals 2024 – Amidst the electrifying atmosphere of the season-ending tournament, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Andrey Rublev. Known for his fiery tennis game and unmistakable presence on the court, Rublev revealed a side of himself that extends far beyond his sporting achievements. The atmosphere within Team Rublev was equally captivating; surrounded by his supportive coach, Fernando Vicente, and an engaged, uplifting staff, the energy was nothing short of inspiring.
In our conversation, we delved into the journey of his clothing brand, Rublo, and his mission to make a difference in the world.
The Genesis of Rublo: A Blend of Passion and Pragmatism
When I asked Rublev why he chose to help children through a clothing brand, he explained with refreshing honesty:
“At the beginning, when I checked foundations, I realised I had no education on how to build them and no people around me with that kind of knowledge whom I could trust. There’s a lot of paperwork, a lot of registration questions and stuff like that. Clothes seemed easier because there I had people I could trust and a good understanding of how I wanted it to look. So I said, ‘Okay, let’s start with that, and then we’ll see.’”
This pragmatic start eventually led to the creation of a proper foundation, a milestone Rublev described as transformative. “With a foundation, everything is clear,” he said. “You can organise events, work with clinics directly, and there’s no doubt about your legitimacy. It’s much easier to help properly.”
Fashion as a Creative Outlet
Rublo, according to Rublev, isn’t about competing with big brands. “I wouldn’t call it a brand; it’s very small compared to any brand,” he noted humbly. Yet, his passion for design and the creative process shines through.
“I always imagined what I’d add to a hoodie or T-shirt, what I’d like to see,” he said. “When my contract with Nike ended, I thought it might be the right moment to try. Waiting for the perfect moment will never work because it will never come. So, I said, ‘Okay, now is the best time.’”
Despite initial challenges, Rublev persevered. “It was very difficult, but I really wanted to try. There were so many complicated things that, if it had been something else, I might have already given up,” he admitted.
A Personal Touch in Every Detail
Curious about the array of necklaces he wore during our interview, I asked him what they represented. With a smile, he shared their significance:
“This one is Bulgari because I’m an ambassador for Bulgari, and it’s in collaboration with Save the Children – profits go to Save the Children. And the rest… Ah, this is the Libra because… ” I interrupted, “You’re a Libra?” “Yes,” he confirmed. “And the other side represents a bull because I was born at the end of Taurus [Chinese Calendar]. And the rest is a cross, from the religious icon.”
These small yet meaningful accessories offer a glimpse into Rublev’s identity, blending his personal beliefs and philanthropic commitments.
Rublo: A Reflection of Hope
Interviewing Rublev for Racquet Magazine NY, it became clear that Rublo is not just a clothing brand but a medium for expressing values of equality, kindness, and hope. It’s his way of using his platform to contribute to a better world.
In Rublev’s words, “At least I tried. If I’d always wanted to do it but never did, I’d regret it. Now, I know I’ve tried.”
And that’s what makes Rublev not just a tennis star but a true changemaker – on and off the court @Andrey Rublev Foundation
This interview was made possible thanks to the collaboration with Racquet Magazine , which also played a crucial role in supporting my thesis for the University of the Arts London (UAL).
All Photos by ©Luce Martini
Beyond the game – Andrei Rublev: Art, Faith, and the Meaning We Carry
“Beyond the game, stories of struggle and purpose connect athletes, artists, and history in unexpected ways. Andrei Tarkovsky’s masterpiece Andrei Rublev (1966) tells the story of the 15th-century Russian icon painter, whose search for meaning and creative expression mirrors the challenges faced by those who carry the weight of expectation.”
“Andrey Rublev, the tennis player, carries a piece of this legacy—literally. The small Russian icons he wears around his neck are more than ornaments; they are a link to a deeper tradition, a reminder of something steady amid the pressures of the modern game. Beyond tennis, his foundation for children and mental health reflects the same idea: that what we create, whether in art or in life, can be a source of strength for others. His story, like that of his namesake, is one of passion, belief, and the search for something beyond mere competition.”
🎬 To explore this powerful story, Tarkovsky’s Andrei Rublev is essential viewing:
🔗 Andrei Rublev on Goodreads
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