Stefanos Tsitsipas Claims Third Monte-Carlo Masters Title, Marking a Career Milestone Ahead of French Open

Stefanos Tsitsipas has etched his name in the Monte-Carlo Masters history books once again, claiming his third title at the prestigious event with a commanding 6-1, 6-4 victory over Casper Ruud. The Greek tennis star, known for his tenacity on clay, continued his recent dominance in Monaco, following up his victories in 2021 and 2022 with yet another triumph. This win, however, has an added significance for Tsitsipas, who described it as “even more special” than his previous two titles.

The final, which took place on Court Rainier III, was a showcase of Tsitsipas’ impressive skill and determination. He made quick work of Ruud in the opening set, sealing it in just 36 minutes with a near-perfect performance. Though Ruud fought back in the second set, the Norwegian was ultimately unable to match the intensity of his opponent, with Tsitsipas clinching the title in 97 minutes.

For Tsitsipas, this victory was a much-needed boost after a rocky start to the 2024 season. The world No. 12 had struggled earlier in the year, compiling an 11-6 record before his Monte-Carlo breakthrough. His performance in Monaco was a stark contrast to his earlier setbacks, as he dropped only one set throughout the tournament and defeated three top-10 players along the way, marking the first time in six years he has achieved such a feat in a single event.

Reflecting on his victory, Tsitsipas shared his emotional journey. “It has been very difficult, so to be back on the podium, winning tournaments just feels amazing,” he said. “The third time is even more special than the first or second time. This is an unbelievable win for me. Capturing that win today was nerve-wracking. I really wanted this trinity, and I am extremely happy today.”

The title not only brought Tsitsipas immense joy but also marked a personal milestone. His win in Monaco propelled him back into the ATP top 10, where he will return to No. 7 in the world. His success in Monte Carlo also set the tone for the upcoming French Open, as Tsitsipas continues to hone his form ahead of the clay-court Grand Slam.

Ruud, who had a notable week himself, was gracious in defeat. Although he fell short of securing his first Masters 1000 title, the Norwegian was pleased with his overall performance, especially his stunning semi-final win over Novak Djokovic. “I think I have taken a few steps forward this week, but today it just didn’t work out,” Ruud acknowledged. “Beating Novak was a fantastic win for me and something that I hope I can take confidence from moving forward.”

Tsitsipas’ victory in Monte Carlo solidifies his reputation as one of the premier clay-court players in the world. With the win, he joined an exclusive club of players who have won three or more Monte-Carlo titles, a feat matched only by Rafael Nadal, who boasts an incredible 11 titles at the event. Tsitsipas’ Masters 1000 win also marks his 11th career ATP title, with all three of his Monte-Carlo victories coming in the last four years.

As Tsitsipas prepares for his next challenge at the Barcelona Open, his confidence is soaring, and his ambitions for the rest of the season are clear. “I promised myself and my team that I would make the most out of it, and I’m glad I delivered today,” he said. With the French Open on the horizon, Tsitsipas will no doubt carry this momentum into Paris, where he will look to build on his Monte-Carlo success and cement his place among tennis’ elite.

A Royal Affair at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters Finals

The 2024 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters wasn’t just a tennis spectacle—it was also a royal affair, with the Princely Family of Monaco adding an extra touch of glamour to the event. Throughout the weekend, the Monte Carlo Country Club was not only buzzing with thrilling matches but also graced by the presence of Monaco’s royal family.

On April 13 and 14, the semi-finals saw Prince Albert II, Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy, Princess Alexandra, and her boyfriend Ben-Sylvester Strautmann in attendance, all eagerly watching the players battle it out for a spot in the final. The excitement reached a fever pitch the following day, as the Princely Family returned to witness Stefanos Tsitsipas’ stunning victory.

Prince Albert II was joined by Princess Charlene, the ever-stylish Prince Jacques, Pierre Casiraghi, Beatrice Borromeo, Princess Alexandra, and Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy to cheer on the contenders. Young Prince Jacques, all of 10 years old, sported a princely look with sunglasses perched confidently on his nose, adding a touch of youthful charm to the royal ensemble. Last year, his twin sister Princess Gabriella had also made an appearance, marking the family’s continued presence at the prestigious event.

Seated close to their cousin Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy, the president of the Monte-Carlo Country Club and Monaco Tennis Federation, the royal family not only added prestige to the atmosphere but also reaffirmed Monaco’s deep connection to the sport of tennis.

The royal presence throughout the weekend underscored the grandeur of the tournament, blending world-class tennis with Monaco’s unmistakable elegance. With the French Open on the horizon, the 2024 Monte-Carlo Masters will certainly be remembered as a dazzling prelude to the clay-court season’s biggest event.