There are few athletes in the world who inspire as much positivity as Casper Ruud does among fans and peers. The Norwegian is an ideal son-in-law, a hardworking, discreet, kind, approachable guy who speaks candidly about all topics and strives to improve every day. Prior to the 2024 ATP Finals, he granted an interview worth reading.
He was just one match away from becoming the world number 1 and a Grand Slam champion. However, not achieving it has not been a moral blow for Casper Ruud, but rather another reason to keep working hard and eagerly. The Norwegian spoke with WeAreTennis in one of those interviews that offer insight not only into the tennis player but also into the person. He addresses topics not typically covered in tournament press conferences and delivers intriguing headlines.
- How Ruud defines himself as a person
"I am a kind and calm guy, a family man. I love gathering with my loved ones for Sunday dinners and discussing various topics. I always try to keep my mind busy and take an interest in matters beyond tennis. I didn't finish school because I started tennis very young, so I feel I can learn many things. Lately, I am trying to understand more about politics, economics, and in general, what is happening in the world," he stated.
- Innate worker seeking continuous improvement
"I feel like I have spent my whole life trying to correct my weaknesses, but now I have also understood the importance of reinforcing my strengths. I am a very professional person, I try to stay focused at all times, and I take every training session very seriously. Honestly, I would like to show more personality on the court, have more charisma, but I feel I need to be very focused to compete because the energy required to win matches is enormous," he admitted.
- Managing the fame and social notoriety that come with being an elite tennis player
"It is part of our job to be influential figures and receive social attention. When I was a child and watched the Big 3 competing, I dreamed of becoming a professional tennis player, but there were many moments when that seemed impossible. I feel like my work ethic has made me better day by day, and I feel very fortunate for what I am doing. I know I must be responsible because I can be a role model for many people, so it is important not to speak about things of which you are not knowledgeable. In these times, everything can be taken out of context," he concluded.
- Importance of his girlfriend, Maria Galligani, in his happiness
"She has chosen to stay in the background, to be very discreet. We met when I was not a top-level tennis player, so things have changed a lot for her and it has not been easy. I have many more obligations now than years ago when we started dating. Tennis is a very absorbing sport because if you are not training or competing, you have to deal with the press, attend events with sponsors, or handle various tasks. There are many obligations that reduce the time to spend with the partner. She has a lot of patience and has found her way. She is the most important person in my life, the one I love the most. I feel very connected to her, and hopefully, we can spend our whole lives together," commented Casper.
- Unforgettable moments in his career and major goals
"I would say my best memories are from the 2022 US Open final. Being able to reach a second Grand Slam final months after securing the first one in Paris meant a lot to me, especially on hard court. I didn't have many expectations for myself, but that tournament showed me how far I can go. I think it was a memorable match with Carlos; I had a lot of fun on the court," he argued.
When asked about his major tennis goals, Casper Ruud is resolute. "My biggest dream is to win a Grand Slam and, as a result, become the world number 1. I wouldn't like to reach the top of the rankings without a Grand Slam title in my trophy cabinet. Honestly, I am happy not to have won a major yet because it keeps me very motivated daily to pursue that goal. Hopefully, I will have another chance to achieve it," said the Norwegian tennis player, ready to face the 2024 ATP Finals.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Ruud: "Me gustaría tener más carisma en pista, pero necesito máxima concentración para competir "

