“Casper Ruud lives and wins an epic duel with Tsitsipas at the Madrid Open.”

Casper Ruud delivered a breathtaking showdown at the Madrid Open, defeating Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas in an epic three-set battle (6-7, 7-6, 7-6) that felt like a tournament final. The Norwegian, the defending champion, did not hold back in describing this clash as a “great final” and revealed the psychological and physical impact the match had, leaving fans in suspense until the very last point.

Ruud, who had not faced Tsitsipas since their consecutive finals in Monaco and Barcelona two years ago, felt that this reunion brought back intense memories of those occasions, demonstrating that the rivalry between them remains alive as ever. “I felt like we went back in time, it was a pleasure to play against Stef, even though it was a nerve-wracking and exhausting battle,” the Nordic player confessed to Tennis Channel. The exchange of top-quality shots kept spectators on the edge of their seats, showcasing the best of current tennis.

The Norwegian did not spare praise for his opponent, acknowledging the difficulties Tsitsipas has faced recently due to injuries, a factor that severely impacts consistency on the ATP tour. “Tennis is ruthless when you’re injured; if you don’t come back with your best game, you fall quickly in the rankings,” Ruud explained, highlighting the points system that only lasts for 52 weeks, which forces players to perform consistently to maintain their position at the top.

The match was a true test of mental endurance. Ruud missed 11 break opportunities before finally capitalizing at the decisive moment. “I kept telling myself that I was doing what I was supposed to do, but Stef served 9 or 10 incredible first serves, and I couldn’t respond adequately,” he revealed. A defining moment came with hesitation at a crucial point in the third set, when, on his opponent’s second serve, Ruud changed his decision at the last moment, missing a forehand that could have been decisive. “Losing that chance cost me, because there aren’t many opportunities like that, and when you miss a big one, you keep thinking about it,” he lamented.

Even after losing serve right after, Ruud refused to succumb to discouragement. “When I got broken from 2-0 to 2-3, I thought about breaking back immediately, and I had a chance to do that, but Stef served well again. It was a crazy battle of advantages and deuce, but I managed to break him in the end,” he said, showcasing his steely determination.

This victory could represent the highlight of the season for Ruud, who acknowledges that the nearly three-hour grind on court was the ultimate test of his physical and mental endurance. “It was different from the earlier matches, which were quicker and in straight sets. Today was a total battle, especially against Stef’s aggressive serve and the serve-and-volley game that exposed me. I’m pleased that I was able to withstand that,” he stated.

Furthermore, the atmosphere in Madrid has been a motivating factor for the Norwegian, who praised the modern facilities and the contagious energy of the fans. “I love the stadium, the fans are amazing. Even at nearly 25 years old, the venue maintains a modern atmosphere that is different from other tournaments. And tomorrow there’s a huge football match, Atlético vs Arsenal, which will further energize the city,” he said, highlighting the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the event.

With his spot secured in the quarter-finals, Casper Ruud is now preparing for the next challenge against Alexander Blockx, but he is already thinking about recuperating. He is eagerly awaiting the rain forecast for tomorrow, which will give him a well-deserved break. “If it rains, I won’t play, and I’ll have a legitimate excuse to rest. If it doesn’t rain, it’ll just be 30 minutes to feel the ball and activate my body. Otherwise, I’ll work out in the gym to eliminate the lactic acid,” he revealed with a smile.

After this unforgettable clash, Ruud emerges as one of the main contenders for the title in Madrid, demonstrating that he is in great form and ready to continue his journey to the top. The adrenaline is high, and the Spanish city is gearing up for more thrilling moments in the upcoming rounds.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.