"This is a very important period of the season for me": Ruud shows his ambitions on clay

Casper Ruud qualified for the quarterfinals of the Rome Masters 1000. In a match postponed to Wednesday, the Norwegian, who recently won the Madrid tournament, ultimately dominated Jaume Munar (6-3, 6-4).

To try and reach the semifinals, Ruud, ranked 7th in the world, will face world number 1 Jannik Sinner. After his victory against the Spaniard, the former ATP number 2 shared his thoughts.

"I didn't have the best first service percentage, but when I found my rhythm, I won a lot of points and conceded only two break points throughout the match, so I didn't really need my first serve today.

I tried to dominate as much as possible, I've played against Jaume (Munar) twice already this year, and he's dangerous if you give him too much time. He's creative, he can make drop shots, build nice points. I'm happy with this victory in two sets.

Yesterday was a long day; we were the last match scheduled on the center court and were the only ones who couldn't play. I went home and left my emotions aside to focus and be ready for today," he assured.

Asked about his progress this season after his title in Madrid, Ruud is aware that he can still improve in the coming weeks, despite not having the best start to the season on the ATP circuit despite his current ranking.

"I would have told you three weeks ago before Madrid that I hadn't yet played the best tennis of my career. It's the same today. Madrid came, it was an extraordinary tournament for me, but I think there's still a lot to do.

But it's certainly a good thing to rack up wins on clay. Since Roland Garros last year, I've had quite a difficult period with few victories.

It's a very important period of the season for me, and I hope I can fight for the last days in Rome and the last weeks on clay before moving to grass," he concluded for Tennis Up To Date.