Sydney Jan 1 (US): Casper Rudd picked up 2023 where he left off in 2022, as he beat Brazil’s Thiago Monteiro 6-3, 6-2 in the first men’s singles match of the new year to boost Norway at United. Brisbane Mixed Teams Cup.
Ruud had a successful 2022, climbing to No. 2 in the world rankings before ending the year in No. 3 after reaching the championship game at the ATP Finals. His start to last season in Australia was memorable: He suffered an ankle injury in training and was forced out of the Australian Open a day before his first-round match, the Associated Press reports.
On Sunday, Ruud only had a few anxious moments before heading into a must-have game for Norway against Brazil. Norway were trailing 2-0 when he pitched against Monteiro at Brisbane’s Pat Rafter Arena. He left the court triumphant after 72 minutes, improving his record against Monteiro to 3-0.
After a comfortable first set win, Ruud lost 2-0 in the second before sweeping six straight matches to seal his victory.
“Winning was a must, so maybe I was feeling a little pressured,” Rudd said. “But I was able to get off to a good start and starting the new year in tennis in Australia feels great.
“I always feel very motivated playing here in Australia. Last year was a bit unfortunate. I didn’t get to play in the Australian Open. I rolled my ankle the day before my first round, so I’m very keen to get a good start to the season here and that’s the perfect way. For me to start another year on the tour.”
Ruud’s victory held off Norway’s Group E defeat of Laura Pegosi over Ulrike Ikere 6-3 6-4 later Sunday to give Brazil a 3-1 lead.
Former Wimbledon champion and Australian Open runner-up Petra Kvitova beat Laura Siegemund 6-4 6-2 to put the Czech Republic 3-0 ahead of Germany in their Group C match in Sydney.
The match was closer than the score would suggest. Siegemund had 11 break points – Kvitova saved nine – and Kvitova overcame 10 double faults to clinch the tie.
Rafael Nadal, who lost his last singles match of 2022 on Saturday to Cameron Norrie, will partner Paula Badosa in the mixed doubles later on Sunday for Spain against Britain.
Two singles matches – one for men and one for women – are played over two days, with mixed doubles ending in a five-match encounter on the second day.
The inaugural United Cup tournament features teams from 18 countries competing in Brisbane, Perth and Sydney until January 4. The three city champions and the best performing country from the group stage will meet at the Ken Rosewall Arena from January 6-8 through January 8. Determine the overall winner.
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