(VIDEO) Throwback interview shows 13-year-old Casper Ruud's humble ambition – “Maybe top 100 if I work hard”
ATP
Casper Ruud had a dream couple of weeks at the Madrid Open, defeating Jack Draper in the final to win his first Masters 1000 title. It was a high-level clash, arguably the most competitive final in the category so far this year, with the Norwegian prevailing 7-5, 3-6, 6-4.
An unprecedented video of Ruud circulated on social media, in which the Norwegian set his goals for the next 10 years when he was just 13 and playing on the junior circuit.
The new world No. 7 claimed his 13th professional title – after 25 finals played – in addition to being his 12th on clay courts. The 26-year-old achieved the most important title of his career after failing in his previous two Masters finals, as well as 3 Grand Slam finals and one ATP Finals.
After winning the title in Madrid – defeating opponents like Taylor Fritz, Daniil Medvedev, and Francisco Cerundolo along the way – the Norwegian will arrive full of confidence for his upcoming challenges at the Rome Open and Roland Garros.
However, a recent video on social media shows Ruud, at just 13 years old, setting a goal of reaching the top 100 or top 50. “My name is Casper Ruud and I’m 13 years old,” he said. “This tournament, quarterfinal maybe, if I play good,” Ruud mentioned when asked about his ambitions in the tournament he was preparing to play. “My biggest weapon is forehand, maybe,” the Norwegian added, also mentioning from that age that his favorite player is Rafael Nadal.
Then, the very young Ruud was asked, ‘In 10 years, what do you think about your tennis career?’: “If I worked hard maybe top-100 or top-50 or something,” Ruud indicated, who 10 years later reached the top 10 for the first time and already had 6 titles – in addition to semifinal appearances at three Masters 1000s and the ATP Finals.
At this point, he has achieved his career-high ranking of world No. 7 and has been a regular top-10 player for the last five seasons, with deep runs in practically every important tournament he has played. He has reached at least the quarterfinals in all Masters 1000s, with the exception of Shanghai, where he fell in the fourth round in his only appearance.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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