Why Casper Ruud is 'Studying' the Next Generation of Tennis Stars | ATP Tour | Tennis
Casper Ruud
The former World No. 2 reflects on his evolving game in the face of a rapidly changing tennis landscape.
January 13, 2026
Image: Izhar KHAN / AFP via Getty Images
Casper Ruud's recent performance in the United Cup in Sydney showcased his determination to stay at the top of the game. With a 1-1 record, Ruud is keenly aware that his success is no longer guaranteed in a men's tennis world dominated by fearless shotmakers.
The Norwegian tennis star has already achieved remarkable feats, reaching the pinnacle of the PIF ATP Rankings and securing three major finals. However, the past two years have seen a dramatic shift in the tennis landscape, with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner dominating the Grand Slam titles, and a new generation of players, including Joao Fonseca and Jakub Mensik, making their mark.
This rapid evolution in the sport has prompted Ruud to reassess his own playing style. In a recent press conference in Auckland, Ruud admitted, 'I've been studying the younger players to understand how my game needs to adapt to their style of play.'
Ruud's game has traditionally relied on heavy topspin, physical consistency, and strategic point construction, particularly from his powerful forehand on clay courts. However, the new generation of players often takes more time to set up their shots, presenting a unique challenge.
This challenge is evident in Ruud's head-to-head record against Alcaraz and Sinner. Despite his impressive ranking, Ruud has only secured one victory in six meetings with Alcaraz and is yet to win against Sinner after four attempts. Ruud attributes this to the increased firepower on both sides of the court, not just his own.
'The new generation, led by Sinner and including Fonseca, is incredibly talented,' Ruud explained. 'They have two powerful shots, both forehand and backhand, and they play an aggressive style of tennis. I've had to adapt to this new style, and it's something I'm still getting used to.'
Ruud's first win of the 2026 season came against the home favorite, Alex de Minaur, at the United Cup in Sydney. He then faced Mensik, losing in a close two-set match. Now, as the second seed at the ASB Classic in Auckland, Ruud is determined to implement these lessons and prove his evolving game's worth in the new ATP Tour era.
With the possibility of facing Mensik again in the semi-finals, Ruud's study sessions may soon become a reality, offering a fascinating insight into how his game can adapt to the changing tennis landscape.
