Casper Ruud has always been known for winning the ATP 250 titles in his underrated career. But on Saturday the Norwegian has finally proven his critics wrong after beating Novak Djokovic in the Monte Carlo semifinals. He becomes the first Norwegian to defeat a No.1 player in the history of the ATP.
With such a sensational achievement, Ruud will also climb from No.10 to No.6 position regardless of whether he wins the final. However, the crux of Ruud’s victory is based on his resilient display against Djokovic, who he had failed to beat in precious five attempts. Before facing Djokovic, he had held a 0-11 record against Top-3 players and was out of favor against the Serbian.
Ruud’s opening set was a big drive for his win. He won 6-4 in the first set clubbing more than 10 winners, but lost his defense in the second set as Djokovic responded swiftly with a 6-1 win. In the third set, he made up for his second set slip with Djokovic mistakes. He went on to defeat the 24-time Grand Slam winner 6-4, 1-6, 6-4 in two hours and seventeen minutes.
After the match, Ruud expressed how joyful he was but also said he was shocked after beating Djokovic for the first time in his career.
I am shocked. Just super happy. This is a day I will remember for a long time, beating the world No. 1 which I’ve never done and beating Novak, which I’ve never done. Casper Ruud said