Tsitsipas sees off Ruud for third Monte-Carlo Masters title

Stefanos Tsitsipas won his first title of the year after he outplayed Casper Ruud 6-1, 6-4 to lift the Monte-Carlo Masters crown for the third time in four years.

The Greek, out of form in the first few months of the year, followed up his win over Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals with a performance full of confidence as he collected his 11th career title, falling to his knees at the moment of victory and the tears obvious as he took in the enormity of his achievement.

Ruud had upset world No 1 Novak Djokovic in the semis and won two of his three previous meetings with Tsitsipas but the Norwegian seemed rushed by the power and precision of Tsitsipas, who romped to victory in fine style.

“It’s been very difficult,” Tsitsipas said. “To be back in the podium and winning tournaments just feels amazing. The trinity is even more special than the first or second time. This is purely unbelievable for me. It was nerve wracking.

“I think from the beginning to the end my tennis was cohesive and I was able to get a huge advantage out of it.”

Early break sets Tsitsipas on his way

Tsitsipas struck first in the opening set, breaking for 2-1 and saved three break back points in the following game as he stamped his authority on the match.

The Greek, who will return to the top 10 on Monday, served well and was equally proficient on forehand and backhand, dictating the majority of the points from the baseline and moving forward at every opportunity.

A second break put him in total control and he grabbed a third when Ruud double-faulted on Tsitsipas’s second break point.

Ruud fights BUT TSITSIPAS STANDS FIRM

Ruud tried to stand deep behind the baseline to return the Tsitsipas serve but it wasn’t working, the Greek spotting the chance to serve and volley in times and cut off the angle.

The Norwegian did create a couple of chances in the third game of the second set, but Tsitsipas stayed ahead, saving himself whenever Ruud did get a break point.

In total, Tsitsipas saved all eight break points he faced and though Ruud upped his game in the second set, the pressure eventually told and the Greek, champion in Monte-Carlo in 2021 and 2022, snatched the vital break in the 10th game to seal victory, finishing off in style with a forehand down the line.

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