Casper Ruud Edges Jack Draper in Madrid, Sabalenka also Wins
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May 5, 2025
Casper Ruud stayed strong in Madrid to land the biggest title of his career so far.
The Norwegian has twice been all the way to the French Open final – and most would say he is at his best on clay,
Yet Jack Draper had chances to prevail in this intriguing final. He served for the first set and won the second.
But when the Brit was broken midway through the third, he cried out in frustration that he lacked the intensity to get the job done on the day.
Jack Draper will come storming back in good time for Wimbledon 2025. If these two rivals play each other at the All England Club, you would expect Draper to triumph.
No one could begrudge Ruud his moment of glory in Madrid, though. The Scandinavian seemed to have ice in his veins for the biggest moments during his 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 victory.
The 26-year-old Ruud said: ‘It’s a mixture of relief and happiness and pure joy, I know how tough it is to do well at the biggest tournaments.’
The man who also lost a US Open final admitted: ‘I’ve never been able to get over the finish line as a champion. But today I did and I’m extremely proud.’
Jack Draper wasn’t particularly downhearted afterwards. He knows what a great year he is having.
Draper explained: ‘The loss hurts and this sport is brutal but I will keep trying. I think this defeat will make me better.’
Casper Ruud may be one of the favourites for the French Open now. But Jack Draper will be more fancied for Wimbledon 2025.
After all, Ruud hasn’t been past the second round at Wimbledon yet. And Draper will have the Centre Court crowd behind him.
Meanwhile Aryna Sabalenka was able to edge Coco Gauff 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) in the women’s final in Madrid.
The American served up three double faults while going for the second set – and nerves clearly played a part throughout.
Coco will need to keep working on that erratic serve and come to London mentally stronger if she is to challenge Sabalenka at Wimbledon 2025.
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