Ruud shines, Mensik survives as Team Europe takes 2-0 lead at Laver Cup
Casper Ruud and Jakub Mensik powered Team Europe to a 2-0 lead at the Laver Cup on Friday, albeit in contrasting styles.
The Norwegian set the tone with a 6-4, 7-6(4) win over big-serving American Reilly Opelka, delivering a dominant serving performance of his own, while Mensik fought off Alex Michelsen 6-1, 6-7(3), 10-8.
Ruud, who revealed that he is debuting a slightly smaller racquet head, was ultra consistent behind his delivery. He won 88 per cent of his first-serve points (45/51) and erased both break points he faced, according to Infosys ATP Stats. Opelka won just 16 per cent of his return points, compared to Ruud’s 28 per cent.
“The [goal was] to be in the zone, make a lot of balls, make him play and get Europe off to a good start,” said Ruud in his on-court interview. “Really happy with the match. I was in the same position last year and lost the opening match, so it’s good to get some revenge and begin strong for Europe.”
Mensik survived a late scare against Team World’s Michelsen. Serving for the match at 6-1, 5-3, Mensik lost serve and needed to complete his victory in a Match Tie-break.
Both players raised their level as the match wore on, but the Czech quickly jumped to a 4/0 lead in the Match Tie-break to deflate the American’s hopes of levelling with Team Europe. Michelsen displayed his competitive spirit to pull within one at 7/8. Mensik converted his first match point with a booming serve on the Ad side to Michelsen’s backhand, which missed long.
“Great match,” Mensik said. “We’ve known each other since juniors, so we knew a lot about ourselves on the court. With this format, with the Match Tie-break in the third, it’s always tough for your nerves, but I’m happy that I stayed focused until the end and I kept fighting. I’m glad that I helped my team take a point.”
Friday’s evening session will feature Flavio Cobolli versus Joao Fonseca. Then, Carlos Alcaraz and Mensik partner against Taylor Fritz and Michelsen.
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