Ruud begins 2023 on a winning note at United Cup

SYDNEY: Casper Ruud has taken up in 2023 where he left off in 2022, beating Brazil’s Thiago Monteiro 6-3, 6-2 in the first men’s singles match of the New Year to boost Norway at the United Cup mixed teams championship in Brisbane.

Ruud had a successful 2022, rising as high as No. 2 in world rankings before ending the year at No. 3 after reaching the championship match at the ATP Finals. His start to last season in Australia was less memorable: He suffered an ankle injury in training and was forced out of the Australian Open a day before his first round match.