Norwegian tennis player Casper Ruud, world No. 8, has revealed details about the illness he suffered after the 2024 French Open.
“The day after the French Open semi-finals, I went home and felt bad for about a week, spending most of the time lying in bed. I had no appetite and was very worried. I did some tests, and it turned out that I had contracted an unusual parasite. These types of parasites are usually acquired from contaminated water. So, if you are unlucky, you can get infected by a drop of water in the shower or by washing fruits and vegetables with dirty water. The incubation period can last up to 12 days, so it is very difficult to determine exactly where the infection occurred.
I was in bed for 10-11 days, which was not what I had planned. It was good to rest, but it was still far from ideal. I got my strength back and started training again in London last Tuesday. I didn't do much between Paris and Wimbledon. It took me a while to recover from that problem.
The setback came at a crucial time for Ruud, who was enjoying a solid clay-court season and was on the verge of a strong run at Wimbledon. The unexpected illness forced him to take an extended break from training and competition, which likely impacted his preparation and performance at the grass-court Grand Slam.
Despite the challenges, Ruud’s comments reflect a resilient and determined attitude as he looks to bounce back from this experience. The Norwegian has proven his ability to compete at the highest level, and this latest hurdle will only strengthen his determination and drive to succeed.
One of the key takeaways from Ruud’s experience is the importance of paying close attention to one’s health and wellbeing, especially during the demanding schedule of the professional tennis tour. The unpredictable nature of contracting a rare parasite underlines the need for players to be proactive in maintaining their physical and mental health, and be prepared to adapt their training and recovery plans if necessary.
As Ruud looks ahead to the remainder of the 2024 season, he will no doubt be eager to regain his momentum and continue his rise up the ATP rankings. With his talent, work ethic and the lessons learned from this setback, the Norwegian has the potential to emerge stronger and more experienced, ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
Ultimately, Ruud’s openness in sharing his story is a testament to his professionalism and commitment to transparency. By shedding light on the realities of life on the professional tennis circuit, he not only provides insight to fans and followers, but also sets an example for aspiring young players who may one day face similar obstacles in their own careers.
