Norwegian tennis player Casper Ruud, world number 7, answered a question about the impact of his participation in the Geneva tournament on his results at the French Open.
“Look at the players in Paris, what do they do in training? They play matches. So why not come here and play a real match, rather than just a training session?” Ruud said in the post-match press conference after his victory at the Geneva tournament.
Casper Ruud became the winner of the ATP-250 clay court tournament in Geneva, Switzerland. This title was the third of Ruud's career. On Saturday, May 25, he defeated Czech Tomas Macac, ranked 44th in the ATP rankings, in straight sets with a score of 7-5, 6-3.
The win in Geneva was an important development for Ruud ahead of the French Open. “Playing matches on clay against quality opponents is invaluable preparation for Roland Garros,” Ruud said. “You can practice as much as you want, but there is no substitute for the intensity and pressure of a real tournament.”
Ruud noted that several of his main rivals, including Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, have also chosen to participate in warm-up events ahead of the French Open. “They understand the importance of match play on clay to get your game razor sharp for the demands of a Grand Slam. That’s why I wanted to come to Geneva, to do those competitive rehearsals before heading to Paris.”
Asked if he was concerned about the potential fatigue of playing an extra event, Ruud dismissed the idea. — Not at all. On the contrary, it will give me more confidence and momentum heading into the French Open. I feel fresh, my game is in a good position and I am ready to give my best to win my first major title.
Ruud's triumph in Geneva added to his growing reputation as one of the best clay-court players on the ATP Tour. Now the focus turns to his quest to win an elusive Grand Slam championship at Roland Garros.
