Ruud sets up final against ‘idol’ Nadal
Paris, June 4: Casper Ruud became the first Norwegian man to reach a Grand Slam final on Friday when he set-up a French Open title clash with 13-time champion Rafael Nadal, the man he described as his “idol”.
World number eight Ruud defeated Croatia’s Marin Cilic 3-6, 6-4, 6-2, 62 in a semi-final which was held up when a protester ran onto the court and tied herself by the neck to the net.
She wore a shirt which bore the slogan: “We have 1028 days left” before being eventually cut free by security staff. The match resumed after a 15-minute delay.
Ruud fired 16 aces and 41 winners past 2014 US Open champion Cilic.
“It was a great match from my side, I didn’t start the greatest but Marin played a very good first set,” said the 23-year-old Norwegian.
“I look up to Rafa. He’s the perfect example of how to behave on the court, never gives up and never complains. He’s been my idol all my life.
“He’s the last player of the Big Three that I’ve never played against, so I guess this is perfect timing. To play him in a Grand Slam final will be great. Hopefully for him too, to be playing against a student from his academy.”
RAFA WOULD PREFER TO ‘LOSE FINAL’
Nadal said he would “prefer to lose Sunday’s final” in exchange for a new left foot after making his 14th French Open final on Friday.
“Without a doubt, I’d prefer to lose the final,” said Nadal.
“My opinion does not change. A new foot would allow me to be happier in my daily life.
“Winning is very nice and gives you an adrenaline rush, but it’s temporary and then you have to go on living.”
“I have a life ahead of me and in the future I would love to play sports with my friends. My happiness goes ahead of any title,” he insisted.—