“I came here when I was eleven years old to watch Rafa, Roger and Novak”

At 26, Casper Ruud managed to win the first Masters 1000 in his career in Madrid by beating Jack Draper in the final.

Triple finalist in Grand Chelem, the native of Oslo was obviously very happy during the trophy ceremony, with a very friendly speech for Draper and the organization of the tournament:

“I want to start by talking about Jack. Thank you for your words. You are a hell of a player for your young age. You are a threat to everyone. And it doesn’t matter when the place is. Nothing will prevent you from succeeding. You were incredible during these two weeks.

And well done to your team too, I know you are working hard. Continue like that, it’s an honor to see you play and it was my lucky day today.

Thank you to my team and to those who could be there. There were failures, but we continued together. After several failures, it will be incredible to lift such a trophy. Thank you for continuing to believe in me. And thank you to my fiancée Maria, who arrived yesterday to encourage me.

Thanks to Feliciano (Lopez, tournament director), sponsors and all those involved in this tournament. I came here when I was eleven years old. I saw you play, Feliciano, but also Rafa, Novak and Roger. It’s great to be able to be here as a winner. This is a bit of what dreams are made of. I can’t wait to come back next year. »»