Ruud Finds Success, Fan Love in Dallas

DALLAS, Texas – Casper Ruud, ranked No. 5 in the PIF ATP Rankings, enjoyed a successful start to his 2025 campaign at the ATP 500 tournament in Dallas, Texas. Ruud, known for his prowess on clay courts, opted to compete on hard courts early in the season, seeking a fresh challenge.

“I know that it’s quite can be quite vulnerable to the surface, because I play a lot of spin. I don’t always take the ball that early, and I’m vulnerable to being attacked by flat or fast hitters, strong hitters. So I know that,” Ruud said. “But I need to challenge myself. On the surface, this is the last indoor tournament I will play in six, seven months, probably. So in a way, I’m happy it’s over for a while, but I want to make it a good finish.”

Ruud’s decision to compete in Dallas, rather than heading to South America for the traditional clay-court swing, reflects the strategic choices players make throughout the season. Factors like tournament schedule, surface preference, and travel logistics influence their decisions.

“It’s a fast indoor surface. My game, I know it’s quite can be quite vulnerable to the surface, because I play a lot of spin. I don’t always take the ball that early, and I’m vulnerable to being attacked by flat or fast hitters, strong hitters. So I know that,” Ruud said. “But I need to challenge myself. On the surface, this is the last indoor tournament I will play in six, seven months, probably. So in a way, I’m happy it’s over for a while, but I want to make it a good finish.”

Ruud’s victory over lucky loser James Duckworth, 7-5, 4-6, 6-2, marked his sixth win of the season. The Norwegian’s popularity was evident in the enthusiastic reception he received from fans, who eagerly sought autographs and photos. Ruud embraced the interaction, recognizing the joy it brings to his supporters.

“At times it can be a lot, but I know that it makes me happy and smile, knowing that if I show up for a picture or do a signature for a kid, I know they’re going to go home and have a happy rest of the day, most likely and have a smile on his or her face,” Ruud said. “That makes me happy. It…