Casper Ruud’s debut at the ATP Cup will be one he will remember for the rest of his career after breaking new territory in his country’s tie with the USA.
The 21-year-old stunned world No.19 John Isner in a marathon battle that saw him save two match points during the second set. Ruud, who is the only player from his country ranked in the top 300, held his nerve to prevail 6-7(3), 7-6(10), 7-5. Withstanding 33 aces from across the court to record his first ever win over a top 20 player.
“It was as close as you could get. Two tiebreakers and then 7-5 in the third (set).” Ruud said during his on-court interview.
“I was really hoping not to play a tiebreak in the third because I know how good John can be.’
“I was a bit lucky to win the second set, saving two match points. Today was my lucky day and I am very happy of course.” He added.
One of the most impressive aspects of Ruud’s latest win was his ability to win 83% of his service points, which was a higher percentage than his opponent. The Norwegian put his victory down to ‘two months of preparation.’ The Next Gen star has only won one Challenger event so far in his career, which was back in 2016.
“I tried to focus a lot of the ball. I had some help the other day from my teammate. He’s a tall guy and was serving a lot to me.” He said.
“I was prepared for this match. I have been preparing for it the past two months. It was good to get a win.”
Trying his teams clash with America at 1-1 after compatriot Viktor Durasovic lost to Taylor Fritz in straight sets earlier in the day, the underdog pairing went on to grab a shock win in the doubles. Edging past Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram 4-6, 6-3, 10-5, to claim the tie 2-1.
Will all members of the team under the age of 21, Norway only managed to qualify for the ATP Cup thanks to the withdrawal of Roger Federer that also forced Switzerland out of the event. An opportunity Rudd hopes he and his teammates will be able to capitalise on.
“We were the last team to get into the tournament after Switzerland pulled out. Unfortunately Roger (Federer) didn’t play, but that gave us a chance. I feel honoured and humbled to be here.”
The captain of the Norwegian contingent is Ruud’s father Christian. A former top 40 player who reached the final of the 1995 Swedish Open and fourth round of the 1997 Australian Open. He is also Ruud’s long-time coach.
“It’s great. My father has been coaching me since I can remember. He was a young father and I think he enjoyed taking me out to the tennis court. He also played himself.” Ruud recounts.
“We have a great relationship and I hope it continues for many years.’
“He will probably be my coach, if I do well, for a long time.”
Ruud is currently at a career ranking high of 54th in the world.
