However, Tsitsipas did not let the 22-year-old breathe, even for a moment. From the get-go, Ruud was forced on the back foot and didn’t stand a chance against the now World No. 7.

In over 1 and a half hours, Tsitsipas cleaned up the Norwegian in straight sets (6-1, 6-4) to clinch his third consecutive win over top-10 players. With this, Tsitsipas became only the fifth player to win three or more Monte Carlo titles, surpassing Djokovic (2 titles).

Years ago if you told me it would’ve been 3 titles here, I wouldn’t have believed you. It’s unbelievable. The support I’ve received here the last couple of years from pretty much everyone.. the whole week was wonderful. I’m happy I have such a supportive team by my side. We’ve been going strong for many years. Thank you for sticking by my side and being loyal to me. It’s the thing I treasure the most.

 Said Stefanos Tsitsipas during the post-match interview. 

Furthermore, with this win, the ATPicon made his way back into the top 10. After dropping down the rankings, he entered Monaco as World No. 12 but will leave the principality as World No. 7.

Stefanos Tsitsipas and Casper Ruud go way back, as the Greek praises his rival for a good match

Good friends and rivals of the same age group, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Casper Ruud, battle it out at the Monte Carlo Masters finals. After a tough game, it was the Greek who emerged victorious, winning his third Monte Carlo title.

Despite a win, Tsitsipas was proud of Ruud and himself for coming this far and gave a lot of credit to his opponent.

Casper, I’d like to say it’s not bad ending up here after having started at the futures circuit a few years ago. I was thinking about it. Congrats to you and your team. Congrats for this amazing journey we’ve both had to end up here.” said Stefanos Tsitsipas during his interview after the match. 

 Said Stefanos Tsitsipas during the post-match interview

He further revealed that he and Ruud go way back, hailing from small courts and working their way to the grandest of stages.

For those who don’t know. Me and Casper date back a long time. Same age category. We’ve played from the smallest courts you could imagine to ending up here in front of you. Playing in front of amazing crowds… I’d like to pay a tribute to that.

Continuing further, he added

Now, the Greek is well ahead of the rest on clay courts, having acquired the first tournament win here. He will now play at the Barcelona Open in a couple of days and hope to build on momentum ahead of the French Open.