Casper Ruud defeats Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to win Barcelona Open

Casper Ruud won the Barcelona Open on Sunday, defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas, the Greek fifth seed, 7-5 6-3.

Just seven days after Tsitsipas defeated Ruud in straight sets to win the Monte Carlo Masters, the Norwegian third seed emerged victorious in the latest clash between the two 25-year-olds, claiming his 10th ATP title on clay.

"Honestly, this has been worth the wait," Ruud said after winning the biggest title of his career, having previously won only in ATP 250 tournaments.

Ruud was relieved to finally overcome his seven failed attempts to win a final above the ATP 250 level.

"A lot of finals that I've lost have been tough, a bit disappointing, of course," he said.

"Any time you reach a final, it's nonetheless a good week, so you can’t be too hard on yourself but this one has been a long time coming."

Ruud also ended Tsitsipas' 10-match win streak.

The Greek got an early break, but Ruud quickly found his groove and frustrated Tsitsipas with his baseline tactics.

Ruud held the advantage throughout the second set, and he did not face a break point.

"In the final in Monte Carlo I was always on the back foot, too far behind, and he had too much time to control the game," said Ruud.

"It was a bit of a tricky start (here), I got broken right away. So not the best start, but I managed to settle in and broke him back."

The world number six will be hoping that the win will boost his chances of finally winning the biggest prize in claycourt tennis, after finishing second to Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic at the French Open the previous two years.

SportsLigue