Ruud rolls into UTS Guadalajara semi-finals with win over Gasquet

Casper Ruud took care of Richard Gasquet in three straight quarters at UTS Guadalajara on Saturday. Ruud is through to the semi-finals, while Gasquet is still mathematically alive.

Casper Ruud UTS Guadalajara 2025 | © UTS

Ricky Dimon

February 15, 2025

Casper Ruud needed a 3-0 win over Richard Gasquet on Day 2 of UTS Guadalajara in order to clinch a semi-final spot prior to his last match in Group A. That exactly what the “Ice Man” got at the Centro Panamericano de Tenis on Saturday afternoon, when he swept Gasquet in three consecutive quarters (17-11, 13-12, 17-14).

Still, it was far from routine. Each of the last two quarters came down to deciding points. Gasquet netted a forehand to squander his late lead in the second and the 38-year-old served a fault at the third — resulting in an unceremonious conclusion to the hard-fought contest.

“I just tried to do my best,” Ruud said afterward. “Richard is a tough player and I think he had the best shot of the day, for sure, around the net. There were some close rallies, some close quarters. So I’m really happy to get the win…. (It’s been) a very good day so far; beautiful weather. And, like always, incredible fans. So I look forward to coming back tonight and playing again.”

The Norwegian was referencing an on-the-run backhand that Gasquet flicked around the net post for a clean winner.

Richard Gasquet, Montpellier, 2025 Valentina Claret / Psnewz

While Ruud will also play again on Sunday, Gasquet is still alive but will need some major help to reach the semis. The “Virtuoso” must beat Adrian Mannarino and Ruud has to get the best of Fabio Fognini in order for Gasquet to have a chance.