Toni Nadal sees several positive characteristics in world No 4 Casper Ruud’s game as he believes the Norwegian has what it takes to become No 1 in the future. Ruud, 23, made his first two Grand Slam finals this year – he ended runner-up to Rafael Nadal in the French Open final, before losing to Carlos Alcaraz in the US Open final.
Going into the US Open final, both Ruud and Alcaraz had the same two things at stake – the winner would win his first Grand Slam title and reach the world No 1 position. Since Ruud lost the US Open final, he was second-ranked after the US Open, while Alcaraz became the youngest No 1 in tennis history.
In an interview with Eurosport, Toni Nadal reflected on Ruud’s rise to the top in 2022.
Toni Nadal backs Ruud to reach the world No 1 position
“Casper Ruud, I remember when he came to the academy, he had a bad backhand because, in my opinion, he made bad movements with his legs.
Now his backhand is good. Back then, I said he needed to change a little. Now watch what has happened with Casper. Every year, he has improved a little. I remember, when he came to the academy, he never thought that he could be No.
2 in the world. Now, I have seen many of his matches and he is a very good tennis player. He can be No. 1. The most important thing in tennis and in life is to improve. Casper has this capacity. Normally he makes things very easy, very simple and not complicated.
With calmness, he hits the ball very well. When you are alone and on the tour, you have to improve and try to learn,” Toni Nadal told Eurosport. Meanwhile, Ruud has been through to the semifinal at the ATP Finals. Ruud is now two wins away from winning the biggest title of his career.
