Ruud polishes his career Swiss perfection

Casper Ruud put more gloss on his untouchable match record in Switzerland as the defending champion began on Thursday with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Czech Jiri Lehecka to reach the quarter-finals at the ATP event in Gstaad.

The Norwegian who won the post-Wimbledon clay sweep with three titles in three weeks at Bastad, Gstaad and Kitzuehel, began re-setting his game after last week’s opening loss in Sweden. 

Ruud now stands an impeccable 13-0 in the confederation after lifting titles in Geneva (2021, 2022) and Gstaad (2021).

“It was a great match,” Ruud said. “The conditions are quite challenging here with the altitude and the ball can fly.

“You need to serve and return well and I think I did that well all day.

“I started a little bit shaky, had some break points against me – he saved five in the opening game – but I was able to win that game and get going. 

“It’s nice to get a win again.”

Ruud now takes on Spaniard Jaume Munar as he ponders his run of form in Switzerland.

“I’ve had great success here and in Geneva, so it feels very good to be back. I have great memories of Gstaad.

”It’s nice to return to a place where you’ve won before. Hopefully I can do well at this tournament. 

“It is a great atmosphere and I love playing in Switzerland.”

Ruud is aiming for a third ATP title of the season after the clay of Buenos Aires and Geneva.