Tennis: Tsitsipas Soars To Third Monte-Carlo Title

Stefanos Tsitsipas capped another standout week at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters on Sunday when he dispatched Casper Ruud 6-1, 6-4 to win his third title in four years in the Principality.

The Greek has produced his best tennis in Monte-Carlo in the past and once again rose to the occasion against Ruud in front of a capacity crowd on Court Rainier III. The Greek played freely, taking large cuts on his heavy forehand to force Ruud deep, while he moved forward efficiently to expose the Norwegian’s deep-court position.

With his one-hour, 37-minute win, Tsitsipas became the fifth player to win three or more Monte-Carlo titles, joining Rafael Nadal (11), Bjorn Borg (3), Thomas Muster (3) and Ilie Nastase (3). After clinching the title, he collapsed to the court before he rose to his feet to embrace Ruud. Visibly emotional, the Greek then embraced his team. He will hope that his title run in Monte-Carlo helps kick start his season.

"It has been very difficult, so to be back on the podiums, winning tournaments just feels amazing," Tsitsipas said. "I can't thank my family enough and friends, and if there is God out there, for making this moment possible. I am extremely grateful for every person behind this journey. The third time is even more special than the first or second time. This is an unbelievable win for me. Capturing that win today was nerve-wracking. I really wanted this trinity. I am extremely happy today."

The 25-year-old arrived at the clay-court ATP Masters 1000 event holding a modest 11-6 record in 2024. However, as has been the case in the past, Tsitsipas found his best level in Monte-Carlo, where he also defeated Top 10 stars Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner. By also beating World No. 10 Ruud, it is the first time since Toronto in 2018 that the Greek has earned three Top 10 wins at an event.

The Greek came out firing in his 28th tour-level final, dictating on his forehand to break Ruud’s serve in the third game. The 25-year-old, who hit 10 winners and committed six unforced errors in the first set, regularly drew roars from the crowd with his fearless tennis catching the eye of stars such as Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc.

"I had to go out there and show my tennis as I promised every single of of them [my team] I will make the most out of it," Tsitsipas said. "I am glad I presented on court and showed some ruthless tennis. From the beginning to the end my play was cohesive and I was able to blend in a lot of different shots."

- ATP Tour