In-form Paul Jubb on a mission to boost ranking after Nottingham win

By James Reid

World No. 298 Paul Jubb insisted his ranking is a false reflection of the level he is currently playing at, after booking his place in the second round of the LTA’s Rothesay Open in straight sets.

Jubb, 24, defied a gap of over 150 places in the rankings to get past Croatia’s Duje Ajdukovic in straight sets 7-6(1) 6-4.

Victory meant Jubb was the first British man – one of 10 in the first round – to proceed to the second round, where he will face either Yunchaokete Bu or compatriot Jacob Fearnley.

And the 24-year-old from Hull is confident is game can help him seal another win as he chases a more accurate ranking.

“It was a very tricky match today, no rhythm, a bit scrappy at times but I just stayed with it, stayed calm and got through it in the end,” said Jubb. “Sometimes you just have to get through those matches.

“What I have been doing since the start of the year, my level has been really good. My ranking doesn’t reflect my level at all, I can confidently say that.

“It’s just a process for me now trying to get my ranking up with every tournament I play. I am producing a high level right now.”

Jubb has shown his ability to mix it with the very best before, famously taking Nick Kyrgios to five sets in the first round of Wimbledon two years ago before injuries halted his progress.

The 24-year-old is supported by the LTA’s Pro Scholarship Programme presented by Lexus, the highest level of support for developing players aged 16-24 designed to help them crack the top 100.

Jubb opened his grass court season with a run to the second round at the LTA’s Lexus Surbiton Trophy, including victory over world No.61 Alex Michelsen, and having got back on his feet this season, Jubb is hopeful of another strong showing on home soil with the British crowd behind him.

He added: “It’s great playing in front of home fans compared to being abroad, you just get that little extra bit of support. It’s always nice to have that little extra boost."

For the latest action on the British summer grass court season, check out the LTA website.