In a dramatic turn of events at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Monte Carlo, Norwegian tennis sensation Casper Ruud secured the biggest victory of his career by defeating World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in a hard-fought semifinal clash. Ruud’s triumph marked his first-ever win against Djokovic, breaking a streak of five consecutive defeats against the Serbian powerhouse.

The match unfolded with intense fluctuations in momentum, as Ruud clinched the first set 6-4, only to witness Djokovic storm back to claim the second set 1-6. However, displaying remarkable resilience and determination, Ruud maintained his composure to ultimately emerge victorious with a 6-4, 1-6, 6-4 scoreline after a grueling two hours and 17 minutes on Court Rainier III.

Speaking after his historic win, a jubilant Ruud expressed his elation, stating, “I am super happy. This is a day I will remember for a long time.” The 25-year-old Norwegian acknowledged the significance of defeating a world number one and the formidable challenge of overcoming Djokovic, adding, “Beating Novak is something I have never done. I am very, very happy. I am a little bit in a state of shock right now.”

Ruud’s victory not only propelled him to his second ATP Masters 1000 final but also highlighted Djokovic’s uncharacteristic struggles. Observers noted Djokovic’s apparent physical fatigue and wavering energy levels throughout the match, prompting speculation about his fitness. Former world No. 1 Andy Roddick commented on Djokovic’s performance, suggesting concerns about his physical condition and questioning the reasons behind his visible exhaustion on court.

Djokovic’s health issues have been a topic of discussion since the Australian Open earlier in the year, where he experienced difficulties with overheating during matches. Similar challenges resurfaced during the Indian Wells Masters and persisted during his semifinal encounter with Ruud in Monte Carlo. Despite Djokovic’s efforts to mount a comeback from a 4-1 deficit in the final set, his struggles ultimately proved insurmountable as Ruud capitalized on a pivotal moment to secure the win.

The defeat leaves Djokovic still in search of his first tournament victory of 2024, raising questions about his readiness for the upcoming clay court season leading to the French Open. With uncertainties surrounding Djokovic’s physical condition and performance, tennis enthusiasts eagerly anticipate how the remainder of the season will unfold for the Serbian tennis icon.

As Ruud prepares to face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the ATP Masters 1000 final, his remarkable triumph over Djokovic serves as a testament to his burgeoning talent and determination to compete at the highest level of professional tennis. With his confidence soaring after conquering the world number one, Ruud aims to continue his impressive run and etch his name further into the annals of tennis history.

Novak Djokovic in 2024

At the moment ranked no.1, Djokovic played his last match on the 13^th of April when he lost to world no.6 Casper Ruud 6-4 1-6 6-4 in the semifinal in Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters (draw).

This season the Serbian has a compiled 11-4 match record. Novak Djokovic’s most significant result of this season was getting to the semifinal at the Australian Open and Monte Carlo.