Casper Ruud, the world number seven, explained his reasons for showing support for the WTA world number two, Iga Swiatek, during the Madrid tournament.
Ruud reached out to Swiatek on social media following her semifinal defeat to Coco Gauff. The Norwegian player wrote: `Hey Iga, keep your head up! Like millions of others, I love watching you play. Today wasn`t your day, but you inspire many and will come back even stronger`.
Speaking about his message, Ruud commented: “I saw a video from the court where she looked very disappointed. I don`t know exactly what she felt or what was going through her mind at that moment, but I felt like I should offer some support. So I tried to cheer her up a bit.”
He added: “She is an incredible player – and it`s not just her: women`s tennis is very spectacular right now. Sabalenka is dominating, Iga has already won five Grand Slams at such a young age, and Coco is third in the world. It`s very interesting to watch them.”
“I watched the women`s final a bit, so yes, I do follow women`s tennis somewhat. I find Coco`s matches very interesting. I like both Coco and Iga because they play powerfully and aggressively, move well, and can slide. I think it`s great that women have also taken their physical capabilities to a new level.”
“I enjoy following how their game develops. I think this year`s Roland Garros will be unpredictable for both men and women,” Ruud stated at a press conference after his victory in Madrid.
