Ruud Sets the Record Straight: "My Joke About Grass Was Misunderstood"

Casper Ruud revisits the phrase that caused controversy during Wimbledon 2022.

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Arthur Millot

le 09/12/2025 à 11h27

2 min to read

Ruud Casper

Ruud: A Player Who Doesn't Like Grass?

Casper Ruud has never hidden that grass is not his favorite playing surface.

And the numbers speak for themselves: only 5 wins in 13 matches on the surface, a total that raises questions for a player accustomed to the top of the ATP rankings.

Even worse, Wimbledon remains a puzzle for the Norwegian, who has never advanced past the second round, even exiting the tournament twice in the first round.

"I Was Misunderstood": Ruud Finally Clarifies the Controversial Statement

It all started with a statement in 2022: "I believe grass is made for golfers."

A phrase said in a humorous tone, but which provoked a tsunami of criticism.

Some saw it as a lack of motivation, others as an admission of weakness, reinforced this summer when Ruud chose to return to the clay courts of Gstaad rather than compete at Wimbledon, still bothered by a fragile knee.

"I Think My Joke About Grass Was a Bit Misunderstood."

But as a guest on the Tennis Week podcast, the Norwegian finally wanted to set the record straight.

"I think my joke about grass was a bit misunderstood. I was more talking about my level on grass, which is not very high. But of course, I hope to improve in the future."

Far from wanting to denigrate grass, Ruud emphasizes his attachment to the diversity of tennis and his desire to progress.

"Grass and clay are the two historic surfaces of our sport. I actually have a lot of fun, even if my stay at Wimbledon is usually not very long."

A phrase that sounds like a smile, but also like the beginning of progress.