Tsitsipas Clinches Third Monte Carlo Title with Dominant Performance

Stefanos Tsitsipas, 25, secured his third Monte Carlo Masters title on Sunday, defeating Casper Ruud, 25, with a commanding display of tennis. The Greek player, ranked 12th in the world and set to return to the top 10, previously won the title in Monte Carlo in 2021 and 2022.

Tsitsipas took control early by breaking Ruud’s serve in the third game of the opening set. Despite facing three break points, he held firm to establish a 3-1 lead. Tsitsipas then secured a double break for a 4-1 advantage, eventually winning the set when Ruud double-faulted after 36 minutes.

In the second set, Tsitsipas faced a challenging 13-minute game at 3-3, saving three break points after being up 40-0. He later sealed the title three games later on his first match point with a forehand winner down the line.

Reflecting on his victory, Tsitsipas credited a pre-match discussion with his team for igniting his performance against Ruud.

“I told them I would play fearless tennis, and that’s exactly what I did. I didn’t want to let my team down; I wanted to seize the moment,” said Tsitsipas, who had defeated Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner in the semifinals.

Describing his 98-minute win as more special than his previous two titles, Tsitsipas highlighted his focused mindset on court.

“This is incredible, and I want to express my gratitude to my family, friends, and everyone who supported me,” he remarked. “Completing the hat-trick is even more meaningful than the first two.”

Acknowledging his opponent, Tsitsipas acknowledged the challenges Ruud posed throughout the match.

“Ruud played well all week, and I want to congratulate him on reaching the final,” Tsitsipas said. “I’m sorry I couldn’t deliver a better performance today, but I hope to return stronger next time.”

Tsitsipas’s victory marks his place among an elite group of players who have won three or more Monte Carlo titles, including Rafael Nadal (11), Bjorn Borg, Thomas Muster, and Ilie Nastase, each with three titles.