Casper Ruud has banished the “big title” hoodoo that has followed him, achieving a crucial rankings rise with a triumphant victory at the Madrid Open. This win marks a significant milestone for the Norwegian, who had previously fallen short in major finals. Ruud’s success in Madrid not only earns him his first Masters 1000 title but also propels him back into the top 10 of the ATP rankings.
Ruud’s Road to Madrid Glory
Entering the Madrid Open, Ruud was ranked No. 15 in the world. Despite being a former world No. 2 and a three-time Grand Slam finalist, some questioned his ability to perform under pressure in big matches. He had lost all five of his previous major finals, including three Grand Slam finals and two Masters 1000s.
Ruud’s journey to the Madrid title was far from easy. He faced tough opponents, including four seeded players: Taylor Fritz (world No. 4), Daniil Medvedev (No. 10), and Jack Draper (No. 6). In the final, he battled Jack Draper in a thrilling three-set match, ultimately emerging victorious with a score of 7-5, 3-6, 6-4.
“[This was] one of the really big goals I dreamed about when I was young, so it’s an incredible feeling to accomplish it,” Ruud said after the win.
Overcoming Obstacles
Ruud’s path to victory wasn’t without its challenges. In his semifinal match against Francisco Cerúndolo, he received treatment from an ATP physio for a rib issue. However, he persevered through the pain and secured his place in the final.
In the final against Draper, Ruud demonstrated resilience and composure. After losing the second set, he regrouped and fought hard in the third set to clinch the title. Ruud won the final after two hours and 29 minutes.
Ranking Impact and Future Prospects
Ruud’s victory at the Madrid Open has a significant impact on his ATP ranking. He will climb eight spots to No. 7 in the world. This rise in ranking positions him favorably for the upcoming Italian Open and French Open. As a top-eight seed, Ruud increases his chances of avoiding higher-ranked opponents in the early rounds of these tournaments.
Key Ranking Statistics
- New Ranking: No. 7
- Points Gained: 1,000
- Total Points: 3,715
Live Race to Turin
Ruud’s Madrid Open performance also significantly impacts his position in the PIF ATP Live Race To Turin. He surged 19 spots to fifth place. This puts him in a strong position to qualify for the Nitto ATP Finals, a year-end championship featuring the top eight players in the world.
Ruud’s Playing Style and Strengths
Casper Ruud is known for his powerful baseline game, particularly his forehand. He is a clay-court specialist, with 12 of his 13 titles won on the surface. His playing style is characterized by heavy topspin, consistent play, and an ability to dictate points from the baseline.
Evolution of His Game
Ruud’s coach, Pedro Clar, noted that Ruud has evolved from a clay-court specialist to a more complete and aggressive player. He has improved his backhand, return game, and mental fortitude. Ruud’s serve can reach up to 193 km/h (120 mph).
Historical Significance
Casper Ruud’s Madrid Open victory is a historic moment for Norwegian tennis. He is the first Norwegian player to win a Masters 1000 title. Ruud has more tour-level wins (125) and titles (12) on clay than any other player since 2020.
Ruud’s Career Highlights
- ATP Titles: 13
- Masters 1000 Titles: 1
- Grand Slam Finals: 3 (2022 French Open, 2022 US Open, 2023 French Open)
- ATP Finals Runner-up: 2022
- Career-High Ranking: No. 2 (September 2022)
Expert Opinions
Many experts have lauded Ruud’s Madrid Open victory as a breakthrough moment in his career. They believe that this win will give him the confidence and momentum he needs to compete for major titles in the future.
The Draper Factor
Jack Draper’s performance at the Madrid Open cannot be overlooked. Despite losing in the final, Draper had a fantastic tournament, reaching his first Masters 1000 final. He will break into the top five of the ATP rankings for the first time in his career.
Draper’s Rise
Draper’s impressive run in Madrid has also significantly impacted the PIF ATP Live Race To Turin. He climbed from fourth to second place, surpassing Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner.
Ruud’s Mental Fortitude
Casper Ruud has been praised for his professional on-court demeanor and mental strength. He was awarded the Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award in 2022. During the Madrid Open, Ruud opened up about his recent mental struggles and revealed that he had been suffering from burnout. He sought help and felt the immediate effect of the mental work he has been doing.
Looking Ahead to Roland Garros
With the French Open just around the corner, Casper Ruud’s Madrid Open victory has come at the perfect time. He will be looking to reach his third final in four years at Roland Garros and claim his maiden Grand Slam title.
“With this win, I put myself back in a good position when it comes to ranking and seeding,” Ruud said. “I’m a good clay court player and in best-of-five sets I’ll be even tougher to beat, that’s my mentality”.
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