Sunday at the ATP Cup was one filled with mixed emotions for Norwegian star Casper Ruud.
Taking to the courts in Perth, the 21-year-old scored the highest-profile win of his career to date in comprehensive fashion. Facing world No.12 Fabio Fognini, Ruud eased to a 6-2, 6-2, win in just over an hour. Scoring his second win over a top 20 player in three days after his triumph against John Isner on Friday. In his latest match, he won 80% of his first service points without facing a single break point.
“Of course I’m very, very happy and excited about beating another top-20 player and the way I did it also.” Ruud said afterwards. “I played a very good match.The score was more comfortable than against Isner. It was a very long match against John.’
“But today of course was a very tough match because you’re playing a good player, but the score was a little bit more comfortable. That was also very exciting for me.”
Despite his best efforts, the win wasn’t enough to secure Norway an overall victory in the tie. Ruud and Viktor Durasovic was edged out in straight sets by the experience pairing of Fognini and Simone Bolelli in the decisive doubles match. Leaving them third in Group D ahead of their crucial clash with Russia.
Regardless of how the Norwegians fair in the next tie, the limelight has been shined on Ruud and his potential in the sport. Last year he became only the second man from his country to contest an ATP Final at the Houston Open where he lost to Christian Garin. Coincidentally the first Norweigan to do so was his father, Christian back in 1995. Reflecting on his latest victories on the tour, Ruud believes it is down to an improvement in his mental approach to the game.
“I think it’s a lot mental because I felt like over the last two, three years I have been playing some very good tennis at some points, but I think every year you grow up a little bit more and you feel more mature.” He explained.
“I think this year is a year where I have been working a lot on my mentality. Coming out here (Perth), beating two top 20 players at the beginning of the year is a great confidence, of course. And also, feedback to me saying that maybe I belong in this level and I belong around these guys.”
Currently at a career ranking best of 54th in the world, the Next Gen star is on the verge of cracking the top 50. One the goals he has set for 2020. However, he admits that he needs to work harder if he wishes to remain among the best of the world for the rest of the season.
“I think if I’m able to crack the top 50 now and stay in the top 50 for the whole year and hopefully even higher, I think I will be very happy with the year.” Said Ruud.
“There are so many good players these days. You have to be a little bit realistic.”
The next test comes in the form of world No.5 and US Open finalist Daniil Medvedev on Tuesday. Who has also scored wins over Fognini and Isner at the ATP Cup. It will be the first ever meeting between the two players.
“I watched the whole match against Isner. Great two wins for him.” Medvedev said of Ruud during his press conference.
“It’s going to be fun to play him. Of course, I have some things in my mind already talking about tactics. But looking forward. Hopefully I can show good game. If I do it, I think I’ll have my chances.”
A Norwegian player is yet to break into the world’s top 30 on the ATP Tour.
