Casper Ruud issues clear response amid scrutiny over controversial

20 October، 2024

22 1 minute read

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Casper Ruud didn’t want to address much the reactions he received following his comments on Saudi Arabia and the Norway government but noted that he will at least “for a while” refrain from talking about politics.

This week, the world No. 8 competed at the Stockholm Open and he was asked to share his thoughts on the inaugural Six Kings Slam that was taking place in Riyadh this week.

In case you missed it, the Saudis hosted a star-studded four-day exhibition featuring some of the biggest names of the game – Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev and Holger Rune. And there was huge prize money offered as every participant was guaranteed to go home with at least $1.5 million, while the winner would collect $6 million – which is the biggest prize money ever offered in tennis history.

Naturally, it led to some strong reactions, with some accusing the players of money grabbing and claiming that the Saudis were only doing it with the intent of sportswashing and improving their image. Asked about that, Ruud suggested that the Saudi authorities look to be wanting changes – that they need to be given an opportunity – and noted that a change always has to start from something. Also, he said that there are other “controversial places” in the world but tennis is being played there.

Also, the Norwegian tennis star criticized his government over what he thinks are high taxes and that prompted responses from certain Norwegian politicians.

While some thought Ruud’s comments were reasonable, he also faced criticism and scrutiny. And after exiting Stockholm in the quarterfinal following a loss to Tallon Griekspoor, he was asked if he had any responses.

“A lot of people have a lot of opinions on anything you say because people have different views. So I won’t speak much about politics for a while,” the three-time Grand Slam finalist said.