After a few frustrating weeks sidelined by a knee injury, Norwegian tennis star Casper Ruud is back on tour and eager to compete again. Speaking ahead of the EFG Swiss Open Gstaad, Ruud reflected on his recovery, his impressive track record in Switzerland, and the possibility of a rematch with local favourite Dominic Stricker.

"The knee is healthy again, so that's the most important thing," Ruud said. "I’ve had a few good weeks of practice back home, and every day has felt better and better."

While Ruud had hoped to compete during the grass court season, including Wimbledon, his knee wasn’t ready. "I stepped on court about a week before Mallorca and realised quickly it was too soon. It was still painful and numb. I gave it a try, but in the end, I needed more time."

Back home in Norway, Ruud focused on recovery and training. "I’ve been watching Wimbledon from home. It’s a beautiful tournament, so it was tough not to be there. But I needed to listen to my body."

The knee issue had been building since Monte Carlo and persisted throughout the clay season. "I was managing it day by day, with painkillers and creams. But during my French Open match, I felt something worsen after a particular movement. That’s when I knew I had to stop and heal properly."

Still, he pushed through to finish his match in Paris. "You know your body as an athlete. I didn’t think I’d make it worse by finishing the match, and Roland Garros means a lot to me. But it was clear I needed time off."

Now back in Gstaad, Ruud hopes to continue his strong form on Swiss soil. "I’ve had a lot of success in Switzerland. Gstaad is a beautiful tournament, and I have great memories here. I haven’t been able to come the last two years, so it’s great to be back."


When we met Ruud outside the Bellevue, he looked very fit and happy to be back in Gstaad. | Photo: Nik Lindberg

Asked about a possible second-round meeting with Dominic Stricker, who beat him in Basel, Ruud didn’t mince words. "It would be tough. He's aggressive, a lefty, and hard to play against. I’ll be watching his match, and I’ll be ready."

With some of the top seeds pulling out, the draw has opened up, but Ruud isn’t underestimating anyone. "Whether you’re ranked 10, 80 or 150, anyone can play great tennis. I need to be ready from the first point."

For now, Ruud is just happy to be back on court, healthy and focused. His goal? To add a third Gstaad title to his collection.

Jeanette Wichmann