Young tennis players often face some extra heat and pressure when they face or are about to face tennis legends. It is not easy to play against those who have inspired them to play the sport. Roger Federer is one such name who has been an ambassador of the sport and has inspired generations.

Recently, the World No.27 Casper Ruud revealed what all was going on in his mind the night before facing Federer. He admitted that he was extremely nervous and could not sleep that night.

“I remember before I was going to play against Federer, so it was a bit difficult to sleep the night before. When you lie with your head on the pillow, your thoughts come,” told Ruud in a recent interview.

The two met at the French Open 2019 in which Federer thrashed Ruud in straight straights. The 22-year-Norwegian player later said that he was under immense pressure before playing the Swiss Maestro.

“Because when you have to meet a player like Federer, the pressure is great,” added Ruud.

Clearly, it was not only Federer he had to face but his huge fan army sitting in the stands, cheering him as well. Although Ruud lost that game later, he was definitely happy that he got to face Federer.

“Was not as easy to fall asleep then”- Casper Ruud’s thoughts before playing Roger Federer

Ruud even disclosed why he got a little nervous before playing the 20-time Grand Slam winner. He accepted that his mind was constantly thing about Federer throughout the day before facing him.

“It is the time of day where I get to think most about what will happen the next day. So when you meet the one who is considered the greatest legend in your sport in history, it is clear that you get a little extra nervous. It was not as easy to fall asleep then,” concluded the 22-year-old.

It was quite evident why Ruud was under massive pressure. It’s not easy to face any of the ‘Big Three’, especially at a Grand Slam. However, those who manage to do so make headlines the following day.

Also Read: Former Tennis star believes Roger Federer’s comeback will be unpredictable