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Casper Ruud vs Taro Daniel (Source: X)
World No. 8 Casper Ruud has made a strong start to his campaign at the Paris Olympics 2024. The Norwegian defeated Japan’s Taro Daniel 7-5, 6-1 to advance to the second round of the men’s singles at Stade Roland Garros on Sunday (July 28).
Ruud demonstrated his prowess as he dominated proceedings throughout to secure a straight-sets victory. The 25-year-old thus levelled his head-to-head record against Daniel at 1-1. The Japanese player had won their previous encounter at the Mexican Open 2023 in three sets.
Also Read: India’s Sumit Nagal suffers three-set loss in first round of Paris Olympics 2024
Meanwhile, a glimpse of Ruud's intense battle on the clay court has been circulating on social media, where he can be seen hitting a beautiful tweener lob against Daniel. A long shot surprised Ruud while attacking near the net, but he managed to reach the ball and a powerful shot between the legs saw the ball go over Daniel's head.
The 31-year-old raced back and collected the ball, but only to send it out of court. Ruud celebrated the crucial points by raising his arms and drew loud cheers from the crowd who enjoyed his insane skills.
Watch the video below:
Casper Ruud hits a beautiful tweener lob against Taro Daniel at the Olympics
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) July 28, 2024
Gutsy tennis.
Love seeing him go for showman shots.
Once his feet touch the clay, he becomes an entirely different beast.
(via @ABouet)
pic.twitter.com/gIamsCs9HL
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Ruud was considered the favourite to win the match, despite his head-to-head record was not in favour. Although Norway's campaign in the United Cup ended in the quarter-finals, Ruud remained unbeaten and enjoyed a fruitful outing.
The former world number two's biggest career title came at the Barcelona Open, where he defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final. He reached the semifinals of the French Open this season. However, he failed to make an impact at Wimbledon and the Swedish Open, losing in the second round of the tournaments.
Ruud, in his Olympic debut, is aiming for a successful outing. However, he will have to beat the likes of Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev and Novak Djokovic.