‘Beat Me There as Well’ – Miami Open Finalist Casper Ruud on Rafael Nadal’s Mastery in Golf

Casper Ruud has been on top of his game in the Miami Open 2022. He defeated Francisco Cerundolo in the semi-finals and has been resilient in his efforts, continuing to take the challenge with full force on the hardcourt of the Miami Open. Like every single player, Casper Ruud is also in awe of the legendary Rafael Nadal. He discussed spending time with Nadal on the golf course.

Casper Ruud and Rafael Nadal on a golf court

Casper Ruud and Rafael Nadal have yet not faced each other on an ATP tour but the duo has faced each other on a golf course. The Norwegian player is a huge fan of golf and follows as well as plays it enthusiastically.

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The Norwegian player talked about playing golf with Rafael Nadal. Casper himself was stated as a player who keeps to himself, so hearing his perspective on Rafa has been exciting.

When asked if he has had a round with Rafa, he said, “I have played with him a couple of times in Mallorca. He is a very good golfer.”

On inquiring about the results, he continued, “No, I didn’t win. He beat me there as well.” Furthermore, he elaborated on the difficulty of playing with him.

He stated, “He’s a very, very tough competitor. He doesn’t say much because he is so focused. Usually on the golf course you are laughing a bit & joking around. With him, it’s no jokes (smiling)”. 

Comeback of Rafa

The Spaniard is going through recovery after facing a rib injury during the Indian Wells. His fans are expecting him to be back by the time Madrid Open comes into being. However, his doctor has made it clear that the player would play professionally on the court only when he is able to recover completely.

Ruud in the finals

Casper Ruud was able to break the Head2head streak between him and Alexander Zverev in the quarter-finals of the Miami Open by defeating him. He defeated the player with a score of 6-3, 1-6, 6-3. He passed on to the semi-finals and defeated Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets. Casper has shown that he can play well in hard courts with equal resistance. The Norwegian player now will face the Spanish player Carlos Alcaraz Garfia in the finals of the Miami Open 2022. The anticipation is high as we will get to see two of the best performing players facing off each other in a nail-biting final.

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