Casper Ruud is through to his first Mutua Madrid Open final. And he’s done it in style. In a tense semi-final on Friday, the Norwegian outlasted Francisco Cerúndolo 6-4, 7-5, showcasing both grit and poise. It marked Ruud’s third Masters 1000 final, but more significantly, it was his first in the Spanish capital.
Ruud didn’t just overcome an opponent. He battled a sore rib, a hostile crowd, and Cerúndolo’s fearless hitting. At 5-5 in the second set, Cerúndolo had triple break point at 0-40. Many would have cracked under that pressure. Ruud didn’t. He saved all 15 break points he faced in the match, holding serve with remarkable calm and precision.
Flawless on Clay
Ruud’s mastery of the surface continues to reach new heights. He now holds a staggering 124-35 record on clay since 2020 — the best in the men’s game. His run to the Madrid final has been pristine, not dropping a single set all week.
The win also ensures his return to the world’s Top 10, just a week after falling to No. 15 — his first time outside that bracket in over a year. A victory in Sunday’s final could see him climb as high as No. 7 or No. 8.
A Champion’s Compassion
While his game speaks volumes, it’s Ruud’s heart that often leaves a deeper impression. On Thursday, Iga Swiatek suffered a heartbreaking semi-final defeat to Coco Gauff. As footage circulated of the Polish star sobbing courtside with her face buried in a towel, Ruud stepped up. Not with a racquet, but with compassion.
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Hey @iga_swiatek keep your head up🙏🙏
Like millions of other people I love watching you play. Not your day today, but you inspire so many and you’ll be back stronger than ever!!😊🤩👏🎾 https://t.co/zV2lQE4kKq— Casper Ruud (@CasperRuud98) May 1, 2025
“Hey @iga_swiatek keep your head up,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Like millions of other people I love watching you play. Not your day today, but you inspire so many and you’ll be back stronger than ever!!”
In an era where performative gestures are common, Ruud’s message rang sincere. It was a reminder that empathy isn’t a weakness in sport — it’s the hallmark of real champions.
One Step Away
This will be Ruud’s 25th career final and his second of 2025. But he is still in search of a defining title. He has previously reached six finals at the Masters 1000 level or higher, falling short each time — most notably to the likes of Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Now, Madrid offers a fresh shot at glory. The clay is familiar. The belief is firm. And the heart? It’s in the right place.
Casper Ruud is winning matches—and winning people. Sunday may yet be the day he wins it all.
Also Read: Draper’s Domination Faces Musetti’s Clay-Court Class in Madrid Semifinal