NEW DELHI: Two-time French Open finalist Casper Ruud cruised to victory in straight sets against Brazilian qualifier Felipe Alves on Tuesday, signaling a renewed quest for his first title in Paris.
Coming off a recent triumph in Geneva, the world number seven and three-time Grand Slam finalist displayed confidence on the Paris clay. Ruud dominated the match, serving close to 90% of first serves, and secured victory in under two hours.
In the second round, Ruud awaits the winner between Monaco's Valentin Vacherot and Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.
"This is one of the biggest tournaments for me and for everyone every year. One of my highlights," Ruud said.
"I’m always looking forward to it. The last two years have given me so much here in Paris. I hope I can make it another good year."
"I think it's been a good clay season for me. Madrid and Rome could’ve gone a bit better. It wasn’t what I hoped for. But other results went well. All in all I’m happy."
In his match against Felipe Alves, Ruud, a runner-up in the previous two editions of the French Open, seized control with his aggressive play. Ruud earned three break points at 3-2 and capitalized on his seventh opportunity to secure a crucial break, taking a 5-3 lead and ultimately winning the first set.
Although Alves initially managed to match Ruud's power game, errors began to accumulate as Ruud maintained his dominance. Ruud did not concede a single break point in the entire second set, further solidifying his advantage.
In the third set, Ruud continued to assert his authority, securing another early break to firmly establish himself in the lead.
The 25-year-old Norwegian closed out the match with a 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 victory in just under two hours, demonstrating his prowess on the clay courts of Paris.
(With Reuters inputs)
