Casper Ruud provided an insightful analysis of his match against Carlos Alcaraz at the ATP Finals in Turin, shedding light on the health struggles faced by the Spaniard during their clash. Ruud’s straight-sets victory, 6-1, 7-5, over Alcaraz marked a significant moment in his ATP Finals campaign, as he looked to recapture the form that once saw him reach the final in the prestigious year-end tournament. However, Ruud was also quick to acknowledge that Alcaraz’s performance might have been hampered by physical issues, specifically a cold that appeared to affect his overall play.
From the outset, it was evident that Alcaraz was not at his best. The young Spanish sensation, who has quickly risen to the upper echelons of men’s tennis, was seen with a nasal strip and frequently using tissues during his match. His sluggish start contributed to a lackluster showing in the first set, where Ruud dominated with precision and poise, racing to a 6-1 lead. The Norwegian explained how he picked up on Alcaraz’s potential struggles before the match even began.
“I kind of knew he was maybe dealing with a bit of a cold,” Ruud revealed. “I saw him sniffling around in the area here, always with a tissue for his nose. That’s a sign that maybe physically he won’t be necessarily at 100%. Of course, that’s sad and not good for him.”
Despite the challenges Alcaraz faced, Ruud knew he still had to bring his best game. The 20-year-old Spaniard, even when not fully fit, remains a dangerous opponent capable of producing extraordinary tennis. Ruud’s strategy centered on making Alcaraz work hard, hoping that extended rallies would take their toll on his under-the-weather rival. “But it’s also part of the game,” Ruud said. “I knew it coming in. I tried to make him play rallies and do my best. It’s not easy. When you know someone isn’t 100%, you get stressed. You think, ‘Oh, this is a really big chance for me to win.’ I tried to stay in my world, the moment.”
Ruud’s composure paid off, especially in the first set, where he dictated play with his powerful groundstrokes and tactical acumen. Alcaraz, who usually dazzles with his speed and shot-making ability, seemed unable to find his rhythm, committing uncharacteristic errors and appearing lethargic at times. By the end of the opening set, the signs of physical discomfort were apparent, but credit must also go to Ruud for capitalizing on the situation and maintaining a high level of tennis throughout.
The second set saw a more spirited effort from Alcaraz, who appeared determined to mount a comeback. The Spaniard dug deep, showing flashes of his usual brilliance, but Ruud continued to apply pressure. The Norwegian demonstrated remarkable mental strength, refusing to be distracted by the potential implications of facing an opponent at less than full strength. “Luckily I got a good start,” Ruud noted. “Second set I was able to turn it around and play some good tennis at the end.”
For Ruud, this victory marked a milestone in his career. It was his first win over Alcaraz in ATP Finals competition, and it provided a much-needed boost after what he described as a challenging end to the season. “I had good times in Turin before,” Ruud said, reflecting on his past experiences at the tournament. “It feels amazing to be back here. Italian fans are always amazing. They always do a great job.”
Ruud also expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received from the fans in Turin, emphasizing the city’s special place in his heart. “I feel very welcome and very good here,” he continued. “The last part of the season wasn’t very good for me. But I try to think I saved some wins for this week.”
Looking ahead, the ATP Finals provide Ruud with an opportunity to prove himself once again on the biggest stage. His success against Alcaraz is a testament to his ability to seize crucial moments and stay focused under pressure. Ruud’s journey in Turin, however, is far from over. With upcoming matches against formidable opponents, including Alexander Zverev, he knows that consistency and resilience will be key.
For Alcaraz, the defeat is a reminder of the physical toll the grueling ATP calendar can take on even the most talented athletes. While his health issues may have hindered his performance, there is no doubt that he will bounce back stronger. His remarkable achievements at such a young age have already made him one of the brightest stars in the sport, and his fighting spirit remains undiminished.
Ruud’s victory serves as a reminder that in tennis, mental strength and strategic execution often make the difference, even when facing an opponent who is not at their best. As the tournament progresses, both players will look to continue making their mark, with Ruud aiming to build on his strong start and Alcaraz hoping to overcome his physical setbacks and display the breathtaking talent that has captivated fans around the world. For now, Ruud can savor his well-earned win, but the journey in Turin continues, with challenges and opportunities awaiting around every corner.