Ruud Wins but Norway Falls to Czech Republic at United Cup
Norway's hopes at the United Cup were dashed on Sunday despite a hard-fought victory from world No 6 Casper Ruud, as they succumbed to the Czech Republic in a tense encounter. Ruud battled through nearly three hours of intense tennis at Ken Rosewall Arena, eventually overcoming Tomas Machac 7-6 (7/6), 5-7, 6-4 in a match that tested his endurance and resolve. However, the win was not enough to secure the tie for Norway.
Ruud's victory leveled the match 1-1 after Czech star Karolina Muchova had earlier dominated Malene Helgo, winning 6-2, 6-2 in a one-sided affair. Muchova, the 2023 French Open finalist, showed no signs of rust as she stormed through the match, breaking Helgo's serve four times and wrapping up the win in just 77 minutes. "I'm very happy to have won in two sets," Muchova said after the match.
With the tie even, the decisive mixed doubles saw Ruud, dealing with a left quad injury, opt to sit out, leaving Viktor Durasovic and Ulrikke Eikeri to represent Norway. Unfortunately for the Norwegians, they were defeated 6-4, 6-4 by Machac and Muchova, handing the Czech Republic a 2-1 victory.
Ruud acknowledged the tough start to his 2024 season after the match, reflecting on the challenge of his opening encounter. "You kind of hope that it won't be that tough, but what a way to start the new season," said the Norwegian. "If every match is going to be this tough, it's going to be a tough season." Ruud, despite his win, faced a series of challenges during the match, including battling through nine break points.
Helgo, who has yet to win a match in the United Cup, now has a 0-6 record in the tournament. As the 18-nation event progresses, Norway’s defeat to the Czech Republic highlights the competitive nature of the mixed-team competition.
In other matches, defending champions Germany, led by Alexander Zverev, faced Brazil in Perth, while the United States, led by Coco Gauff, took on Canada.
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