Ruud makes a successful Wimbledon debut
Casper Ruud has put his mind at rest. The Norwegian, who has been very uncomfortable on grass, nevertheless made it through the first round on Monday.
Opposed to qualifier Alex Bolt, Ruud didn't always shine, but nonetheless secured the essential points, winning in 3 sets (7-6, 6-4, 6-4).
In what was his first match since the French Open, the world number 8 looked relatively comfortable on London grass.
Solid on serve (18 aces, 85% of points won on first serve) and very aggressive (48 winners, 26 unforced errors), he has reached the second round where he will meet a certain Fabio Fognini, who defeated Frenchman Luca Van Assche (6-1, 6-3, 7-5).
Victory over the veteran Italian would see him reach the third round of Wimbledon for the first time in his career.
Wimbledon
Features - Saudi Arabia, injuries, war, and business: the fascinating underbelly of tennis revealed by TennisTemple
Davis Cup: between reforms, criticism and national culture
The paradox dividing tennis: exhausted players and a saturated calendar, yet ever more exhibitions
Training future champions: spotlight on the decline of the French public model facing private academies