Casper Ruud's 'Murray-like' defense steals show at US Open
Norwegian tennis star, Casper Ruud, has made headlines with his extraordinary performance in the second round of the US Open 2024. He faced off against Gael Monfils in a match that saw him display exceptional defensive skills. The highlight of the match came during the fourth-set tiebreak when Ruud pulled off an incredible recovery, turning what seemed like a lost point into a stunning play.
Ruud's defense draws global attention
The stunning point won by Ruud was featured on the US Open's social media platforms, garnering praise from tennis enthusiasts worldwide. In response to this recognition, Ruud humorously suggested that he was emulating British tennis legend Andy Murray. This statement added an extra layer of intrigue to his already impressive performance against Monfils at the tournament.
A nod to Murray's iconic shot
The point that drew comparisons to Murray was won by Ruud with a brilliant cross-court forehand, reminiscent of Murray's signature shot. This move is particularly significant as it mirrors a memorable moment from the 2023 Australian Open. In his first-round match against Matteo Berrettini, Murray showcased remarkable resilience and skill during a prolonged rally that captivated both fans and commentators alike.
Murray's performance: A symbol of tenacity
Despite being at a disadvantage for most of the rally, Murray managed to turn the tables and secure the point. This show of endurance and precise shot placement highlighted his tenacity. Murray's thrilling five-set victory turned the match into one of the tournament's standout moments. It symbolized his remarkable comeback and ability to compete at top levels despite previous injury struggles.
Match summary and H2H record
Ruud won the second round against Monfils, 6-4, 6-2, 2-6, 7-6 (3). Monfils served 13 aces as compared to Ruud's six aces. However, Monfils committed 11 double faults against Ruud's single double fault. Additionally, Ruud won a total of 120 points compared to Monfils' 107 points. With this win, Ruud now leads Monfils 2-1 in terms of head-to-head on the ATP Tour.
