RAFAEL NADAL is aiming for an unprecedented 14th French Open title when he faces Casper Ruud in the final this afternoon.
Nadal, 36, had helped to mentor Ruud, 23, at his training school when the Norwegian star was a teenager.
Nadal said about his past with Ruud: “I think in the academy we were able to help him a little bit during this period of time.
“But more than another thing it’s about I like to see the good person achieving his dreams.
“For me, Casper is one of the candidates for winning in every clay-court event that he’s playing. He’s one of the clear favourites. He’s not a big surprise at all.”
Ruud said about record 21-time Grand Slam champ Nadal: “I will try to figure something else out other than in the practice, how to beat him. I will just enjoy the moment.
“This is a special occasion for both of us. He’s playing for his 22nd. I’m playing for my first.”
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What time is Rafael Nadal vs Casper Ruud?
Rafael Nadal vs Casper Ruud takes place on Sunday, June 5.
The match will start at 2pm UK time – this is 3pm local time.
15,000 will watch on with the Philippe Chatrier Court playing host.
What live stream and TV channel is Nadal vs Ruud on?
- The French Open men’s final is live on Eurosport.
- To stream it live, head to Discovery+.
- New subscribers can watch for free with a 30-day Amazon Prime trial plus a 7-day Eurosport Player trial.
Head to head
The pair are playing each other for the FIRST time in a pro match.
Odds
Rafael Nadal 1/6
Casper Ruud 4/1
Odds via Betfair
