Ruud Doesn't Have 'Too Much More To Prove' Ahead Of Wimbledon
ATPFriday, 30 June 2023 at 13:00
Updated at Thursday, 15 May 2025 at 20:34
Casper Ruud doesn't feel like he has to prove much more after making it to three Grand Slam finals, even though his dream of winning a major remains.
Ruud had a lot of pushback against his tennis excellence because, for the first part of his career, the Norwegian exclusively made a living on clay. He's won multiple trophies on the surface, but he has yet to win a major trophy, which caused many to doubt whether he is truly as excellent as he seems to be.
One thing that can be used as a metric are Grand Slams. Those are the most important events in the calendar and most players try to bring their best level in those.
Ruud has now played in three finals at majors so far, which for him proves that he's really that good. In a recent interview with Eurosport, the Norwegian said he feels like he has nothing else to prove.
"I don’t think there is too much more I need to prove that I am this good or that good or not good or whatever, because I have reached three finals now. I think that gives me motivation to try to win one, and of course it stings to lose in the finals, but what would you rather have - losing in three second rounds or three finals? It’s an easy choice for me."
The latest final Ruud contested was in Paris recently, and once again, he fell short. It's unfortunate because his first loss was to Rafael Nadal, a legendary player.
His second one was to Carlos Alcaraz, a likely legendary player in the future as well. Ruud's latest loss was to Novak Djokovic, so while unfortunate, they weren't bad losses to someone-hit-wonder.
"I am very proud of what I have done. People can think and believe what they want but in my mind that shows great things for what the future can hold. I am motivated to try to take that last step and try to win one, that is my biggest goal and dream since I was a young kid."
To get that dream, Ruud needs to work more and improve, even though it's unlikely that he will ever win at Wimbledon, considering his approach to tennis on grass.
His preparation for the event certainly doesn't sit in line with his talk about needing to improve, but ultimately, the results on the court are the best measure.
"I have realised I am doing well but there are still plenty things that I can improve and become better. I wish to always try to develop as a player. These next five or six years can be very important and hopefully very enjoyable, as long as I stay healthy. The next year is going to be exciting for me."
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