Perth (Australia) (AFP)
The Russian Daniil Medvedev, 5th in the world, defeated the young Norwegian wolf Casper Ruud (53rd) in two sets (6-3, 7-6 (8/6)), Tuesday in Perth (Australia), thus sealing the qualification of Russia for the quarterfinals of the ATP Cup.
Karen Khachanov (17th) having made short work of Viktor Durasovic (6-2, 6-1), Russia won before Norway even before the double.
Medvedev, struck 34 winning streaks and 13 aces to dismiss the tough Ruud, who had impressed by previously defeating two former top 10 members, the great American server John Isner (19th) then the Italian Fabio Fognini (12th).
"The score does not fully reflect the match because it was really close and (Ruud) could also have won," said the finalist in the last US Open.
Medvedev went to great lengths to hike his net, finding 14 of his 19 chances in this register, facing the astonishing Ruud who trains at the academy of Rafael Nadal and whose world No. 1 is full praise.
"He played well during the pre-season preparation. I saw him preparing in Mallorca. He trained hard," said Nadal during the ATP Cup.
Ruud entered the top 100 last season and occupies the second best ranking for a Norwegian, behind his father Christian Ruud, ranked 39th in the mid-90s.
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