Casper Ruud Wins Maiden Masters Crown in Thrilling Madrid Open Final

Casper Ruud battled past Jack Draper 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 to win his first Masters 1000 title at the Madrid Open. Ruud's victory marked a milestone in his career.

Casper Ruud claimed his first Masters title after a thrilling match against Jack Draper at the Madrid Open. Ruud won the match 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, securing his maiden Masters 1000 triumph. This victory marked a significant milestone in Ruud's career, showcasing his determination and skill.

The rising star Jack Draper, who will rise to fifth in the world rankings, had hopes of adding to his Indian Wells title. However, Ruud's experience and perseverance paid off as he outlasted Draper in his third Masters final.

“It feels great, of course, it's been a long time coming, it's one really big goal that I have dreamt about since I was young,” Ruud said, expressing his joy and relief after achieving his lifelong goal. Draper, meanwhile, was seeking his first clay court title, but Ruud's performance ultimately secured his place in tennis history.

Jack Draper graciously congratulated Casper Ruud on his well-deserved win, saying, “Congratulations to Casper on this win, you really deserve it -- you were braver than me in the key moments.” Draper showed humility and determination, adding, “This sport is brutal but I will keep trying, I think this loss will make me better.”

The match saw intense moments, with Ruud struggling early on. He blinked first with back-to-back double faults, giving Draper a break for 2-1 in the first set. However, Ruud regrouped and showcased his quality in a crucial seventh-game hold, upping his power and hinting at the fightback that would follow.

As Draper served for the set, he couldn't quite finish off Ruud, who seized the opportunity to break and tie the set at 5-5. Ruud then held his serve and broke again, claiming the first set after Draper mishit a forehand. This loss of the set was a turning point, and Draper visibly expressed his frustration, ranting aloud to his team.

Casper Ruud wins the biggest title of his career at the Madrid Open pic.twitter.com/JL5n6oNoj8

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) May 4, 2025

Draper's outburst seemed to spark a change in his game, as he produced exceptional tennis in the second set. With only one unforced error, he showcased his rasping forehand and played some of his best tennis of the match, taking the set and leveling the contest.

Draper took control of the second set, breaking Ruud in the seventh game to lead 4-3. He then saved two break points in the eighth game and broke Ruud again to claim the set with his third set point, forcing a deciding set.

Casper Ruud gets his hands on the Madrid Open trophy 🏆 pic.twitter.com/P3ppPBW1lL

— Sky Sports Tennis (@SkySportsTennis) May 4, 2025

The decider was a grueling battle, with Draper saving three break points in the third game, which lasted over 10 minutes. However, Ruud's persistence paid off as he broke Draper in the fifth game and consolidated for a 4-2 lead, with his first Masters title within reach. As the match wore on, Draper's fatigue began to show, but he fought hard to stay in contention. Draper saved a break point in the seventh game despite being docked a first serve for a time violation. Ruud then held serve for 5-3, putting Draper in a tough position as he served to stay in the match.

Draper found renewed energy and held to love, forcing Ruud to serve out the match. Despite being new to Masters 1000 victories, Ruud showed experience and composure. He powered through his final service game, opening up three match points. Ruud ultimately sealed the win when Draper's reply sailed into the stands, ending the match and securing Ruud's historic victory.