In a recent episode of Eurosport’s ‘Ruud Talk,’ World No. 8, Casper Ruud, offered insights into Carlos Alcaraz’s competitiveness and drive to excel in the world of tennis. While acknowledging the Spaniard’s remarkable success, Ruud also noted that Alcaraz can be overly self-critical at times.
Carlos Alcaraz has undoubtedly carved his name as one of the finest tennis players of his generation, boasting an impressive list of accomplishments. He clinched two Grand Slam titles, triumphing at the 2022 US Open and the 2023 Wimbledon Championships. Additionally, Alcaraz achieved the prestigious World No. 1 ranking last year following his remarkable performance at Flushing Meadows.
Ruud’s observations came to light during a discussion on Alcaraz’s achievements in the latest episode of ‘Ruud Talk.’ The Norwegian player pointed out that, as the 20-year-old matures, he should learn to ease up on himself.
“I think he’s more mature. He seems a little bigger, a little stronger physically. Obviously, he plays so aggressive and so great, but, sometimes, it seems like he might beat himself a little. He goes for almost too much, at least in my eyes,” Casper Ruud commented.
He emphasized his reluctance to criticize Alcaraz further, highlighting Alcaraz’s undeniable prowess. Ruud noted that although Alcaraz often produces extraordinary shots, there’s a temptation to go for even riskier plays. However, Ruud believes that Alcaraz has come to understand that winning matches isn’t solely about hitting spectacular shots; it’s about maintaining stability on the court.
Casper Ruud, a two-time French Open finalist, also commended Carlos Alcaraz’s combination of composure and strength, making him a formidable adversary on the tennis court.
“I think he’s playing more calmly than before, and that can be dangerous when you have the strength and power combined with the cleverness on court, we’ve seen this year. It’s a great combo,” Ruud said.
Alcaraz’s journey in the world of tennis continues to impress, and his willingness to adapt and grow, as highlighted by Ruud, further underscores his potential to become a dominant force in the sport.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2023
Ranked world no.2, the Spaniard played his last match on the 11th of October when he capitulated to world no.17 Grigor Dimitrov 5-7 6-2 6-4 in the 4th
round in Shanghai (draw).Until now, during this year the Spaniard has a 63-9 record. Alcaraz has won 6 titles in 2023 in Buenos Aires, Indian Wells, Barcelona, Madrid, London and Wimbledon. Carlos reached the final in Rio de Janeiro and Cincinnati.
Casper Ruud in 2023
Ranked world no.8, Ruud played his last match on the 26th of October when he capitulated to world no.90 Dominic Stricker 6-4 3-6 7-6(1) in the 2nd round in Basel (draw).
During this season the Norwegian has managed to achieve a compiled 37-22 win-loss record. This year, Casper won 1 tournament in Estoril. Casper reached the final at the French Open and Bastad.
Ruud is scheduled to play next in Metz (Moselle Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 5th of November.
Carlos Alcaraz and Casper Ruud fought against each other 4 times. Their current record is 4-0 for Alcaraz. Previously, the last time they locked horns, Carlos Alcaraz won 6-4 6-2 in the quarter in Beijing (China Open) on the 2nd of October 2023.
In the following video you can watch the key moments of their match.
Carlos Alcaraz and Casper Ruud |
| Embed from Getty Images |