7-6, 6-4, this is not just a game of numbers, it is Ruud's battle report woven with strength and sweat in the semi-finals of the Barcelona Open! Yes, he is Ruud, an insatiable fighter and runner-up in three Grand Slam finals, who has now added another impressive record: his 27th win of the season.
Let's start with the number 27, it sounds like the kind of score that can only be seen in a video game, right? But no, it's real, Ruud has won time and time again on clay with his tireless legs and lightning-fast reflexes. On the day of the match, the enthusiasm of the spectators on the sidelines was as lively as the Moroccan market in the summer. And Ruud, he's like a bullfighter dancing on clay, every step is so precise, every shot is so powerful.
Facing a challenge from rival Echeverry, Ruud didn't give any respite. Although the 7-6 victory in the first set came hard, after all, it was won through a tie-break, but it was more like a kind of training for Ruud. His almost perfect serve and return on the court is reminiscent of the seasoned hunter who always pulls the trigger at the most crucial moments. The second set was a seemingly calm 6-4 scoreline, but it was a battle of technique and strategy, with Ruud winning the match with his trademark baseline long ball and nimble volleys in front of the net.
When Ruud celebrates with a fist shake after the fight, you can read a sense of unleashing pleasure on his face, a sense of self-affirmation, anticipation for the future. The victory was not just a personal accolade, it was a declaration of his career, announcing that he was ready to challenge for higher accolades at the upcoming French Open.
It has to be mentioned that the victory also allowed Ruud to surpass Sinner in terms of wins and become the player who has won the most games this season. Imagine how the Norwegian proved himself time and time again on the Circle, not just as a technical challenge, but as a mental and physical test.
Ruud's game is always so passionate, watching him play is like watching a good action movie, you never know what's going to happen in the next second, but you know it's a good show no matter what the result is. Now, all eyes are on the upcoming French Open, with Ruud's fans and tennis lovers looking forward to his ability to reach the final again in the kingdom of clay and beyond.
At this point, there is reason to believe that Ruud's journey is far from over. His game, his fighting spirit, and his achievements are constantly reminding us that tennis is not just a game, but an attitude towards life. I look forward to Ruud continuing to write his own legend in the next games, and I also look forward to everyone who loves tennis to find more fun and inspiration from his game.