Ruud, after falling to Blockx: "I was surprised because I didn't find weaknesses in his game"

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Casper Ruud will not be able to defend his Mutua Madrid Open title due to the tournament's surprise: Alexander Blockx. The Norwegian, like Félix Auger-Aliassime a few days ago, was surprised by the solid game of the 19-year-old Belgian, who did not give him any chances, despite the fact that the Nordic player was showing a great form this week at the Caja Mágica.

Therefore, the Oslo native expressed satisfaction with his game these days but felt hurt for not taking a step further. Although he is aware that the main culprit was Alexander Blockx, whom he did not hesitate to praise in his meeting with journalists after his defeat.

Casper Ruud praises the great tennis displayed by Alexander Blockx

"I tried to analyze his game, not live but by watching replays and summaries of his matches, in addition to the reports we received. We do everything possible to prepare. But ultimately, on the court, you have to execute your shots. Today I was a bit inconsistent with my forehand, missed some shots while seeking winners. That gave him confidence from the start."

"I was surprised because I didn't find major weaknesses in his game. When that happens, you tend to force it. You have to give credit: he has a great serve, is solid, and plays heavy from the baseline. For someone so tall, I was surprised that he positioned himself quite far back on the court. It's not usual for a player of that type. Nevertheless, it worked very well for him this week. He has quickly climbed in the rankings and will probably soon be among the top 50, even higher."

Evaluating his performance at the Mutua Madrid Open 2026

"I am pleased with some good matches here in Madrid. I came with doubts in the early training days, unsure if my calf would hold up because I had issues in Monte Carlo. So I was just happy to be able to compete."

"I had a good start to the tournament with good matches and victories. In the quarterfinals, when you're there, you don't settle; you want to go for more and more. But overall, it hasn't been bad. I hope to keep building and have a couple of good weeks in Rome. Then Paris will follow."

Impressed by Blockx's good performance

"He has a very solid game from the baseline, supports his serve very well, and can do many things: attack, come to the net, defend, move well. He also reads the game very well. I was impressed not only by his serve but his consistency from the baseline," concluded Casper Ruud, who will not be able to defend his crown in Madrid due to the tournament's great revelation: Alexander Blockx.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Ruud, tras caer ante Blockx: "Me sorprendió porque no encontré debilidades en su juego"