Sports
Ruud and Medvedev Clash in Madrid Quarterfinals Showdown

MADRID, Spain — World No. 15 Casper Ruud will face No. 10 Daniil Medvedev at the ATP Madrid Open quarterfinals on Thursday afternoon. Both players are eager to advance after receiving byes in the first round.
Medvedev moved through the tournament after Laslo Djere withdrew due to a shoulder injury. He won matches against Juan Manuel Cerundolo and Brandon Nakashima, with the latter match going to three sets. Meanwhile, Ruud has breezed through the second, third, and fourth rounds with straight-set victories over Arthur Rinderknech, Sebastian Korda, and Taylor Fritz.
The two players have met three times before, with Medvedev leading the head-to-head by 3-0. Their last encounter was in 2021, where Medvedev claimed victories in straight sets at both the Mallorca quarterfinals and Nitto ATP Finals. This matchup in Madrid will be their first on clay, and Ruud is determined to earn his first win against the Russian.
Medvedev’s 2025 season has featured a rollercoaster of performances. Although he reached the semifinals at Indian Wells, his results have been mixed, including early exits at both Miami and Monte Carlo. Ruud has also faced challenges this season. After a disappointing Australian Open, he reached the final of the Dallas Open but struggled afterward until his recent success at the Madrid Open.
Known for his prowess on clay, Ruud has won 11 of his 12 ATP titles on the surface and reached consecutive French Open finals in 2022 and 2023. Medvedev, primarily a hard-court specialist, is recognized for his adaptability, making him a formidable opponent on any surface.
As the quarterfinal approaches, Ruud’s established history on clay gives him motivation and an edge in this matchup. The Norwegian’s consistent performance in Madrid suggests he is regaining form, possibly putting him in a favorable position against Medvedev. According to recent predictions, Ruud is favored to win, highlighting his clay-court dominance.
The match between Casper Ruud and Daniil Medvedev is scheduled to start at 7:00 AM ET.