Casper Ruud makes Rafael Nadal on clay v Novak Djokovic on hard court comparison at Indian Wells

Casper Ruud compares what it is like facing Rafael Nadal on clay to playing Novak Djokovic on hard courts. The Norwegian has played Nadal just once on the red dirt and that was in the French Open final in 2022, which the Spaniard won 6-3 6-3 6-0. Ad Ruud says playing Nadal on clay feels as if he is playing the 36-year-old «in his backyard» and that he felt «clueless» when trying to find a tactic to overcome the 22-time Grand Slam champion back in June.

ATP MiamiDjokovic coach Ivanisevic says world No. 1 has not given up on Miami Open entry18 HOURS AGO «Rafa on clay has been the one that really, I felt clueless what to do and chanceless as well,» Ruud told a pre-tournament press conference at Indian Wells. «It was really a one-way show, we played at Roland-Garros last year, and particularly best-of-five sets is really difficult.» Ruud has lost all four of his meetings against Djokovic on the ATP Tour.

The world No. 4 has failed to win even a set against the world No. 1.

Two of those losses have come on hard courts at two successive Nitto ATP Tour Finals, including last November in the final in Turin. 'Another brutal match' — Murray extends unbeaten record in deciders to reach round two 'His last chance' — Why Indian Wells withdrawal could help Djokovic achieve Nevertheless, Ruud further emphasised how tricky it is to play Nadal on clay. «Not taking anything away from Novak because whenever it is important on a hard court, he steps up,» Ruud continued.

«He'll break you or play some unreal rally. »But just the general feeling every point being thrown at you with an incredible amount of top spin and how Rafa just locks you in one corner… «You feel like you're on his home ground and in his backyard. For me, they are some of