Ruud Continues His Title Defense in Barcelona and Advances to the Quarterfinals

Casper Ruud has cleared the second round of the ATP 500 in Barcelona. The Norwegian, defending his title in Catalonia, had to battle for two hours to overcome Hamad Medjedovic 7-5, 7-5 and secure his spot in the quarterfinals.

Trailing by a break in both sets, Ruud managed to turn the match around each time, also capitalizing on his opponent's inefficiency on break points (Medjedovic converted only 2 out of 11).

A Scandinavian derby awaits in the quarterfinals, as Ruud will face Holger Rune, against whom he holds a 6-1 head-to-head record (including five wins on clay).