Follow usCasper Ruud achieved a career-defining victory at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters by upsetting World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in a thrilling semi-final clash.
Despite never having won a set against Djokovic in their previous encounters, Ruud delivered a stellar performance to secure a 6-4, 1-6, 6-4 victory, marking his second ATP Masters 1000 final appearance and his first since 2022.
Throughout the intense two-hour, 17-minute battle, Ruud showcased remarkable composure and aggression, unleashing 23 winners to outmatch Djokovic.
His victory holds historical significance as he becomes the first Norwegian player to defeat a World No. 1 in ATP Rankings history.
THE BIGGEST WIN OF HIS CAREER 🤯@CasperRuud98 secures his first-ever Top 3 victory after a 6-4 1-6 6-4 win over Djokovic 🥶#RolexMonteCarloMasters pic.twitter.com/6K2M867vay
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 13, 2024
With nine of his 10 tour-level titles earned on clay, Ruud aims to break his record of never winning above ATP 250 level as he advances to the Monte-Carlo title match. Following this remarkable achievement, Ruud climbs four spots to No. 6 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings.
For Djokovic, the loss marks a setback in his quest for a third sweep of all nine ATP Masters 1000 titles. Despite competing in his first semi-final in Monte-Carlo since 2015, Djokovic leaves the tournament with an 11-4 season record, yet to secure a title in 2024.
Djokovic receives support in ATP schedule discussion 
Djokovic beats Bergs in Shanghai to reach 80th Masters 1000 semifinal 
Djokovic comes from set down in heavy conditions to reach Shanghai’s Fourth Round 
