Two-time French Open finalist Casper Ruud has advanced to the second round of the 2024 tournament with a routine 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 victory over Brazil’s Felipe Meligeni Alves. The Norwegian, who was a finalist in 2022 and 2023, showcased his clay-court prowess once again at Roland Garros.
Ruud, 25, played under the roof on Court Philippe Chatrier due to wet weather, which delayed play on the outside courts until late afternoon. Despite facing some challenges, Ruud managed to break through Meligeni Alves’ defenses. He failed to convert three break points in both the sixth and eighth games but eventually broke the Brazilian’s serve to close out the first set.
In the subsequent sets, the seventh seed broke early and maintained his lead, securing a straightforward win. Meligeni Alves, ranked 137th in the world, struggled to keep up with Ruud’s consistent play.
Reflecting on his performance and the season, Ruud said, “It has been a good clay season for me. This is one of the biggest tournaments for me, one of my highlights, and the last two years have given me so much here in Paris. I hope I can make it another good year.”
As the tournament progresses, attention turns to other top players. Defending champion Novak Djokovic is set to begin his title defense later on Tuesday, facing France’s Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the night session on Chatrier. Additionally, Holger Rune and Alex de Minaur are also scheduled to feature on day three, adding to the excitement at Roland Garros.
