Casper Ruud to Leave Australian Open Early for Wife's Labor
In a heartwarming display of family commitment, Norwegian tennis star Casper Ruud has announced his intention to leave the Australian Open early should his wife, Maria, go into labor during the tournament. Maria is heavily pregnant with the couple's first child, a daughter, making this a special and pivotal moment for the Ruud family.
A Family-First Approach
Ruud, the 12th seed at the Australian Open, has been clear about his priorities. After beating Italy's Mattia Bellucci 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in the first round on Monday, he expressed his gratitude to Maria for allowing him to compete in the first place. "I know she's at home resting, getting ready," Ruud said. "Except for when I'm playing a match, the ringer is on all hours of the day just in case."
The 27-year-old has long been known for his dedication to his family, often traveling with them during tournaments. His father, Christian Ruud, a former professional tennis player, serves as his coach, further intertwining family and career.
Ready to Depart at a Moment's Notice
"I probably won't be here the next day" if Maria goes into labor, Ruud stated emphatically. This readiness to drop everything for his family underscores a shift in his perspective. "There's more to life than just tennis, but I'm going to be here for as long as I can and as long as Maria lets me," he added.
A New Chapter for Ruud
The impending arrival of his first child marks a significant milestone for Ruud. He shared his excitement about the future, saying, "I know for a fact that if everything goes well, the next time I'll leave my house I will have another person at home." This new chapter is not just personal but also professional, as Ruud now has someone extra to play for.
"She'll be very little and small, but she'll be there, and I hope to bring her and my wife Maria to the tournaments together and be a happy family travelling around," Ruud told the ATP Tour website. This sentiment reflects a broader trend among athletes who are increasingly prioritizing family alongside their careers.
Focus on the Second Round
For now, Ruud remains focused on the tournament, set to face Spain's Jaume Munar in the second round on Wednesday. His performance in the first round was a testament to his ability to balance the pressures of competition with the anxieties of impending fatherhood.
Balancing Tennis and Family
Ruud's approach to balancing his professional life with his family responsibilities is both refreshing and inspiring. In an era where athletes are often seen as singularly focused on their careers, Ruud's willingness to prioritize his family sets a powerful example.
His father, Christian Ruud, has been a constant presence throughout his career, not just as a coach but as a supportive family member. This close-knit family dynamic has undoubtedly played a role in Casper Ruud's success on the tennis court.
Looking Ahead
As the Australian Open progresses, all eyes will be on Casper Ruud to see how far he can go before potentially leaving to be with his wife. Regardless of the outcome, his commitment to his family is a reminder that there are more important things in life than any single tournament or victory.
Ruud's journey is a testament to the evolving nature of professional sports, where athletes are not just competitors but individuals with families, responsibilities, and a life beyond the court. As he prepares for the next match, the world watches, not just as fans of tennis, but as admirers of a man who understands that family is the ultimate victory.
Conclusion
Casper Ruud's decision to leave the Australian Open early if his wife goes into labor is a powerful statement about the importance of family. In a world that often demands singular focus, Ruud's ability to balance his career with his personal life is both commendable and inspiring. As he continues to compete, his story serves as a reminder that there are more important things in life than any single match or tournament.
