In a thrilling showdown set for May 2, 2025, Francisco Cerundolo will face off against Kasper Ruud in the semi-finals of the ATP Mutua Madrid Open. The match is scheduled to start at 17:00 Moscow time, and both players have demonstrated exceptional form leading up to this crucial encounter.
Francisco Cerundolo, currently ranked 21st in the ATP rankings, has had a remarkable season thus far, boasting a record of 24 wins out of 33 matches in 2025. While he has yet to secure a title this year, he made a significant impact by reaching the final in Buenos Aires and the semi-finals in Stuttgart. His performance at the Madrid Masters has been impressive, winning two sets in two of his three matches and overcoming Jakub Mensik in a tough quarter-final battle, clinching victory with scores of 3:6, 7:6, 6:2.
On the other hand, Kasper Ruud is positioned 15th in the ATP rankings and has also had a strong season with 19 wins against just six losses. Notably, he reached the final in Dallas earlier this year, where he faced defeat against Denis Shapovalov. Ruud's performance at the Madrid Masters has been stellar, as he has not dropped a single set throughout the tournament. In the quarter-finals, he triumphed over Daniil Medvedev, winning 6:3, 7:5, marking a significant milestone as it was his first victory against Medvedev in four attempts.
The head-to-head record between Cerundolo and Ruud adds another layer of intrigue to this semi-final clash. Cerundolo leads their encounters with a 4:3 advantage, having won two of their four meetings on clay. Their most recent match in Miami saw Cerundolo emerge victorious with a convincing 6:4, 6:2 scoreline. This history suggests that Cerundolo may have the psychological edge going into this match.
Bookmakers have set the odds for this tightly contested match, with Cerundolo at 1.98 and Ruud slightly favored at 1.83. The total games market reflects the expected competitiveness of the match, with over 23.5 games priced at 1.85 and under at 2.00. Analysts predict a close battle, with both players known for their strong performances on clay courts.
Cerundolo's game has shown remarkable stability this season, and he has proven capable of handling pressure, particularly in long matches. His ability to control the tempo and vary his shot strength and direction has made him a formidable opponent. With his confidence soaring, Cerundolo is not just a dark horse but a genuine contender for the title at this Masters event.
Ruud, despite a rocky start to the season, has demonstrated a resurgence in form, particularly in Madrid. His game has become more disciplined, marked by fewer unforced errors and an ability to remain patient during rallies. His powerful forehand and tactical approach on clay make him a dangerous competitor, especially in high-stakes matches.
As the match approaches, both players are keenly aware of what’s at stake. For Cerundolo, a victory would not only propel him into the final but also solidify his status as one of the top players on the ATP tour this season. For Ruud, winning this match would be a crucial step in overcoming previous disappointments and reclaiming his place among the elite.
The excitement surrounding this semi-final is palpable, with fans eager to see which player will emerge victorious. Will Cerundolo continue his impressive run and secure a spot in the final, or will Ruud's experience and skill on clay prove too much for the Argentine? One thing is for sure: this match promises to be a thrilling contest that showcases the best of men's tennis.
As the players prepare to take the court, all eyes will be on the Madrid Masters, where the stakes are high and the competition fierce. With both competitors in excellent form, tennis enthusiasts can expect a match filled with intense rallies, strategic gameplay, and perhaps even a few surprises along the way. The anticipation is building, and the tennis world awaits the outcome of this exciting semi-final.
