MONTE CARLO: Stefanos Tsitsipas has secured his third consecutive Monte Carlo Masters title, defeating Casper Ruud 6-1, 6-4 with a display of dominating tennis, western media reported on Sunday. The 12th-ranked Greek, set to reclaim his spot in the top 10 on Monday, reiterated his commitment to fearless play, a strategy inspired by a pre-final conversation with his team. Tsitsipas, who had previously shocked Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in the semifinals, expressed his determination not to disappoint his team, delivering what he described as “unbelievable, ruthless tennis.”
With 30 winners to Ruud’s 20, Tsitsipas showcased his superiority on the court. His victory marked his third triumph in Monte Carlo, a feat achieved by only four other men in history: Rafael Nadal (11), Bjorn Borg, Thomas Muster, and Ilie Nastase, each with three titles. In a match filled with tension, Tsitsipas broke early in the first set and maintained his lead, eventually clinching the set with a double fault from Ruud.
The second set saw Tsitsipas face challenges, notably saving three break points in a crucial game at 3-3. However, his resilience prevailed as he secured the title on his first match point with a forehand winner down the line. Reflecting on his victory, Tsitsipas expressed gratitude to his support network and described the significance of completing the hat-trick of titles as “amazing.”
Ruud, gracious in defeat, commended Tsitsipas for his exceptional performance throughout the tournament and acknowledged his opponent’s return to the top echelons of the sport. Despite his disappointment, Ruud vowed to strive for future success, aiming to break through and claim major titles like the Monte Carlo Masters.
