Norway’s Casper Ruud has said he will leave the Australian Open immediately if his wife goes into labour, putting family ahead of tennis. The world number 12 is expecting his first child with wife Maria, who is heavily pregnant back home. Ruud made a strong start in Melbourne, beating Italy’s Mattia Bellucci in straight sets, but admitted he remains on constant alert for news from home.
Family comes first
Ruud confirmed he is ready to fly out at any moment. “I probably won’t be here the next day if she goes into labour,” he said. The 25-year-old added, “Except when I’m playing a match, the ringer is on all hours. There’s more to life than just tennis.” He also thanked his wife, saying, “I have to thank Maria for letting me go in the first place.”
Strong start in Melbourne
The Norwegian began his Australian Open campaign with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win over Mattia Bellucci in the first round. Ruud, seeded 12th, will face Jaume Munar of Spain in the second round on Wednesday as he aims to build on his solid opening performance.
Playing for something more
Ruud, a three-time Grand Slam runner-up (US Open once, French Open twice), revealed his motivation has changed. “I’m not just doing this for myself anymore. I have someone extra to play for,” he told the ATP Tour website. He hopes to travel with his wife and newborn daughter on tour in the future.
Family support system
Ruud continues to be coached by his father Christian Ruud, a former professional player. The family has travelled together throughout his career, and Ruud hopes to expand that circle soon, saying he looks forward to returning home to “another person at home” after the birth.
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