In “Breaking Back,” viewers are invited to step off the polished courts and into the deeply personal journey of Russian tennis star Andrey Rublev. Far from the noise of stadium cheers and rankings, this film captures the mental, emotional, and spiritual odyssey of an athlete grappling with vulnerability, pressure, and identity.
Rublev, often known for his fiery presence and explosive forehand, opens up in a way rarely seen in professional sports. The documentary delves into his struggles with self-criticism, perfectionism, and the burden of constantly measuring up to expectations—both his own and those of a demanding public. Through reflective interviews, moments of solitude, and raw behind-the-scenes footage, Rublev presents not just the story of a competitor, but of a human being navigating the complexities of his craft.
The film’s cinematography complements its subject’s emotional tone: stripped down, intimate, and at times jarring. There are no filters to soften the impact of what’s said or felt. His honesty doesn’t always arrive in neat, media-trained soundbites; instead, it spills out in fragments—unguarded, sometimes contradictory, and always real.
What emerges is not simply a portrait of athletic discipline, but a layered depiction of growth. “Breaking Back” doesn’t shy away from asking what the cost of greatness might be, and whether the pursuit of mastery can coexist with peace of mind. For fans and newcomers alike, this is a rare look into the psyche of a world-class athlete still in the process of becoming.
Rublev in Wimbledon, ranking, and results in 2025
Now the world no.14, Andrey has an overall 19-14 record in 2025. Rublev is competing in Wimbledon where he ousted the world no.60 Laslo Djere 6-0 7-6(5) 6-7(9) 7-6(6).
Andrey Rublev will face the world no.320 Lloyd Harris in the 2nd round. The head to head is 3-0 for Rublev.
The Russian clinched 1 title in 2025 in Doha. Rublev was the runner-up in Hamburg (Hamburg Open).
The Russian won 17 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 6 on clay courts and 6 on indoor courts. (See the list of his titles)