Ruud edges out Draper in Madrid to claim his first career Masters 1000 title!
After falling short in Miami in 2022 and Monte-Carlo in 2024, Casper Ruud finally became a Masters 1000 champion this Sunday. The Norwegian triumphed in a hard-fought battle against Jack Draper (7-5, 3-6, 6-4) in the Madrid Open final.
Both players, who had not dropped a single set en route to the final, faced each other for the first time on tour. Draper started the match with stronger intentions, securing an early break and serving for the set at 5-4, 30-15. But a double fault and a slight dip in form allowed Ruud to claim the next three games, sealing the first set 7-5.
The second set then swung in favor of the Brit, who played with far greater precision (12 winners, just one unforced error). Trailing 3-2, he reeled off four straight games to force a decisive third set.
However, Draper cracked first in the final set, dropping his serve at 2-2. With better physical endurance than his opponent, Ruud held onto the break and surged toward victory, securing his maiden Masters 1000 crown.
This marks the biggest title of his career, as he had previously only won lower-tier tournaments (one ATP 500 and eleven ATP 250). The two-time Roland-Garros finalist will also re-enter the Top 10 tomorrow, climbing to No. 7.
As for Draper, he can take solace in breaking into the Top 5, reaching a career-high No. 5, and showcasing his promising clay-court potential during this Madrid campaign.
Madrid 
