Madrid, Spain — Casper Ruud has stamped his authority on the 2025 ATP season in dominant fashion. With a gritty 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 win over Jack Draper in the final of the Mutua Madrid Open, Ruud not only captured his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title, but also extended his flawless 2025 record to 20-0 when winning the first set.
The 26-year-old Norwegian, who was previously 0-2 in Masters 1000 finals, finally broke through in style. On the red clay of Madrid, he held his nerve in key moments, outlasting an in-form Draper in a tense, two-hour and 29-minute showdown. With this monumental win, Ruud becomes the first Norwegian to ever lift a Masters 1000 trophy — a historic milestone for his career and his country.
Ruud: The Ultimate Front-Runner
Ruud’s incredible 20-0 record in matches where he’s won the opening set is unmatched on the ATP Tour this year. That includes wins over top players like Daniil Medvedev, Taylor Fritz, and Sebastian Korda. His Madrid title run featured straight-set victories over three Top 10 players — Fritz, Medvedev, and Draper — a testament to his growing dominance on clay.
Interestingly, while 15 of those 20 victories have come in straight sets, the final in Madrid was one of the rare times he was pushed to three — and still prevailed. This consistency has elevated Ruud back into the Top 10 of the PIF ATP Rankings, where he now sits at No. 7, and up to No. 5 in the ATP Live Race to Turin.
Dream Realized: Ruud’s Breakthrough Moment
“It feels great, of course,” said a visibly emotional Ruud after the match. “It’s been a long time coming. This is something I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid — winning a Masters 1000 title. To finally achieve it, in a match like this, makes it even more special.”
He also credited his support system, including his fiancée Maria and his family, for helping him push through the challenging moments of his career. “They’ve always been there, and this win is just as much for them,” Ruud said.
Draper: A Star on the Rise
Despite the loss, Jack Draper continues to turn heads in 2025. The 23-year-old Brit now holds a 19-5 record for the season and will rise to a career-high No. 5 in the ATP Rankings. Already a Masters 1000 champion this year in Indian Wells, Draper remains a serious contender for the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin.
“Congratulations Casper, you were the braver one today,” Draper said during the trophy ceremony. “I’ll learn from this. Losses like these are tough, but they shape you.”
What’s Next?
With Roland-Garros around the corner, Casper Ruud is undoubtedly a title threat. His form, especially on clay, makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone. And with this Madrid breakthrough under his belt, Ruud is no longer just a finalist — he’s a proven champion.
Stay tuned with TennisNowCanada.com for more updates on Casper Ruud’s season, ATP rankings shifts, and all things Canadian and international tennis!
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