MATCH REPORT | 2024 US Open: Ruud outlasts Monfils in four sets to reach third round

Casper Ruud secured a hard-fought victory over a resilient Gael Monfils, winning 6-4, 6-2, 2-6, 7-6(3), to continue his journey at the US Open. The Norwegian 8th seed overcame a lengthy weather delay in the fourth set and returned to the court in better form to close out the win against the Frenchman.

The 3-time Grand Slam runner-up achieved his 45th major win and advanced to the third round, where he will face rising star Juncheng Shang, who has been impressing on the Tour and is looking to cause an upset after eliminating Bublik and Carballes-Baena in the earlier rounds.

Ruud, the heavy favorite, secured the first break in the 5th game on his first opportunity, which turned out to be the only break point of the set as both players displayed solid service games. Ruud (No. 8) committed just 3 unforced errors compared to Monfils’ 10, and despite hitting fewer winners (10 to Monfils’ 12), he took the set 6-4, continuing his strong start.

In the second set, Ruud broke early once again and quickly raced to a 2-0 lead. He maintained his service efficiency, conceding only four points throughout the set while increasing the pressure on Monfils during returns, leading to more extended rallies that favored the Norwegian. Ruud’s forehand was particularly effective, with varied shots that troubled his opponent. He sealed the set 6-2 after securing another break, appearing dominant over Monfils.

However, the Frenchman mounted a spirited comeback in the third set, securing his first break of the match and racing to a 3-0 lead within minutes. Monfils was in control, vastly improving his service efficiency, conceding only 5 points and closing the set with another break, winning 6-2 and putting on a great show at Flushing Meadows.

The 37-year-old veteran seemed to be on the verge of a comeback after taking two consecutive breaks in the fourth set, leading 3-1. But Ruud managed to break back and level the match. With Monfils leading 4-3 in the fourth set, a lengthy weather delay suspended play.

Upon resumption, the match remained tight until the tie-break, where both players comfortably held serve. In the tie-break, Ruud’s experience shone through as he secured two early mini-breaks, surging to a 4-0 lead and eventually closing out the match 6-4, 6-2, 2-6, 7-6(3). Ruud now advances to the third round of the US Open, where he will face 19-year-old Chinese star Shang Juncheng.