"Big day for Norwegian tennis" - Ruud after reaching semifinal

Casper Ruud weathered a spirited challenge from Holger Rune at Roland Garros, extending his best Grand Slam run into the semi-finals 6-1 4-6 7-6(2) 6-3.

It was a tricky and competitive match with both players badly wanting to win it. Rune was very disappointed with himself many times protesting, and arguing while Ruud kept his cool and only let off steam once he secured the win. He said after the match:

"These are the matches you dream about playing and hopefully of course even the final, if it's possible. I have to be really focussed and bring my 'A' game in the semi-final because Marin has played great all week and it's going to be another tough match."

The man from Norway also continued breaking records that his father held. Until Casper, the senior Ruud was the best player in Norwegian tennis history but he's already eclipsed that by a mile. He said:

"A big day for Norwegian tennis. because we have also a female player — Ulrikke Eikeri — who made the final of mixed doubles today. She is even one step further than me. She will play for probably her biggest title of her life tomorrow so I wish her luck."