Jannik Sinner was beaten by Stefanos Tsitsipas in three sets (6-4, 3-6, 6-4), while Casper Ruud finally defeated Novak Djokovic at the sixth attempt, also in three sets (6-4, 1-6, 6-4).  Before yesterday, the Norwegian have never been able to take a set off Djokovic in their five previous meetings.  

In this afternoon’s final between Tsitsipas and Ruud, Tsitsipas will make a comeback to the Top 10.  That will not be his focus though, as the two-time winner will have only one goal in mind – getting a third title in Monte Carlo.

The last time these two faced each other, Ruud won 6-4, 7-6(4) in the semi-final in Los Cabos in February 2024. As a result, Ruud leads 2-1 in the head-to-head standing against Tsitsipas. However, the Greek plays some of this best tennis on the clay courts of Monte Carlo and this afternoon’s match could deliver some interesting surprises.

Ruud will be seeking the biggest title of his career and his first since Estoril in 2023.  He will also be trying to break a four-match losing streak in tour-level finals, including a defeat to Djokovic in last year’s Roland Garros title round.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger