Ruud missing his golf, but tennis comes first

Avid golfer Casper Ruud admitted on Monday that he’s missing out on the links – but the tennis call of duty has to come first in the priorities of the ninth seed at the Indian Wells Masters.

The Norwegian and his father – former Tour player Christian Ruud – are keen golfers.

But birdies and bogies must yield to backhands and forehands after the  ninth seed progressed to the fourth round 6-2, 6-4 over Arthur Fils.

“I’ve only been able to play two rounds,” Ruud said. “I wish I could play more, but I have to focus on tennis, as well.”

The disciplined Scandinavian who has played three Grand Slam finals, said that hitting the links is definitely not on the menu the day before a match.

That rule translates to full concentration in Wednesday’s headline fourth round clach with French showman Gael Monfils.

“I never play the day before a match. It’s too competitive with me and my dad and my friend. 

“I actually get quite tired after playing 18 holes because it’s a battle from the first to the last shot.

“Playing four hours of golf the day before a match is not something I typically do. I need to be fresh and ready for every match….maybe when the tournament is done I can play one more.”