Stefanos Tsitsipas will surge back into the Top 10 after hammering out his third title at the Monte Carlo Masters with a 6-1, 6-4 defeat Casper Ruud on Sunday.
The Greek who once stood third in the world, completed his trophy hat-trick playing with fearsome purpose.
He claimed the 11th title of his career in just over 90 minutes, with two-time Roland Garros winner Ruud unable to make a lasting impression a day after upsetting world No. 1 Novak Djokovic.
Tsitsipas also won in the principality in 2021 and 2022.
“I told my team I would go out and play fearless tennis; that’s what I did. I wanted to make the most out of it.
“I showed some unbelievable, ruthless tennis.”
Tsitsipas said the third time is the sweetest: “The trinity (hat-trick) is even more special than the first or two. This match was nerve-wracking – I really wanted the trinity and I got it today.
“I played cohesive tennis from start to finish.”
Tsitsipas swept up the opening set in 36 minutes thanks to Ruud’s double fault on set point but faced more of a test in the second set.
The 12th seed won a 13-minute game a 3-all, saving three break points after blowing a 40-0 lead. He closed out the final three games later on his first opportunity with a forehand drive down the line.
Ruud, twice a Roland Garros finalist, promised to come back for another go at the trophy.
“Stefanos has been playing so well all week. You are now back where you belong (among the top players).
“I’m sorry I could not put on a better performance today, hopefully I will be back with a better performance in another year; hopefully I’m getting closer to these big titles.
