Casper Ruud Reflects on ATP Masters 1000 Journey Ahead of Miami Open

INDIAN WELLS, California (AP) — Casper Ruud, a two-time finalist at ATP Masters 1000 events, is reflecting on his memorable journeys in tournament play as he prepares for the Miami Open. The 26-year-old Norwegian, once ranked No. 2 in the world, aims to build on his past successes and create new milestones in his career.

Ruud, currently ranked sixth globally, attended a press conference in Indian Wells to share insights from his experiences at the elite tournaments. He noted, “It’s hard not to say Palm Springs [Indian Wells]… I love my golf. The comfort side of this tournament is incredible, probably the best there is in the Masters 1000 events.” He appreciates the relaxing atmosphere in Indian Wells, which contrasts with the hustle of other large cities hosting tournaments.

Among his ambitions, Ruud expressed a desire to claim the title at the Monte-Carlo Masters, the first clay-court Masters event. “I was in the final last year, so it’s one where I have been closer to actually lifting the trophy,” he said.

When asked about a dream match scenario, he highlighted a potential clash against Rafael Nadal in the Monte-Carlo final as his ideal. He explained, “I think probably in the final of Monte-Carlo and beating Rafa [Nadal] would be a dream scenario.”

Ruud acknowledged the intense competition at Masters 1000 events, stating, “You have to beat the best players in the world because they all show up here. I’ve never been able to win one, so I don’t know exactly how it feels, but I’ve been in a couple finals. It’s no joke trying to win a Masters 1000.”

The player recalled exciting matches as a fan, particularly a recent showdown between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic at the Cincinnati final in 2023. Ruud reminisced about classic rivalries, including Nadal versus Djokovic at the 2009 Madrid Open, which lasted nearly four hours. “I remember that from my childhood,” he said.

As for favorite courts, Ruud enjoys the central court at Indian Wells and the stunning Monte-Carlo venue overlooking the sea. He added that Pietrangeli in Rome holds a special place for him, particularly when facing Italian opponents.

Reflecting on his Masters 1000 debut at Miami in 2017, Ruud admitted, “I lost pretty badly in the first round. I got a solid beating by [an opponent].” He has since grown as a player and aims to achieve greater success.

Sharing off-court memories, Ruud mentioned a fun round of golf with fellow player Taylor Fritz at Marco Simone Golf Club. He enjoys catching other sports events during tournaments, like attending a Real Madrid football match in Madrid or watching a Miami Heat game.

His most notable victory at a Masters 1000 event came against Djokovic in Monte-Carlo last year, a win he describes with pride. “Wins against Novak don’t come easy… it’s something that you work hard for and try to achieve,” he said. Ruud now looks ahead to facing Miomir Kecmanovic in the second round of the Miami Open.

As he prepares for the next chapter of his career, Ruud balances his love for tennis and golf, having recently experienced a dream round at the legendary Augusta National Golf Club. “It was incredible… I feel like I don’t have a word in my vocabulary to describe it properly,” he recounted.

With the Miami Open on the horizon, Ruud is eager to refocus on his tennis ambitions while cherishing the memories created at Masters 1000 tournaments.