Casper Ruud issued a very interesting take as the world No. 11 believes it is easier for Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner to handle the long schedule simply because they are winning a lot and they are at least mentally in good spots when they arrive to tournaments.
When the time comes for the Asian and European indoor swings, that's when players usually complain the most about the calendar being too long and demanding. This year has been no different. After Holger Rune sustained a serious injury last week in Stockholm and injured his Achilles, Jack Draper and Taylor Fritz directly accused the calendar and demands of the schedule for what happened.
Meanwhile, Ruud enjoyed a strong week in Stockholm, winning his second title of the year after beating Ugo Humbert. The Norwegian has played 51 matches this week and stands at 37-14.
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On the other side, Alcaraz - who has complained about the calendar multiple times - stands at 67-7 in 2025 and has won eight titles so far this year. Sinner, who was banned for three months earlier this year and refrained from criticizing the calendar, is 43-6 in 2025 and has lifted three titles.
Ruud: Recovering from defeats weekly is a challenge... Alcaraz and Sinner win a lot
"The calendar is very long, making it incredibly hard to move from one tournament to another with barely any time to process what has happened. We are pushing our bodies and minds to the limit. I believe that, in my case, it was crucial to take a break in the summer. That is what allows me to arrive now in good condition. Carlos and Jannik might have played over 70 matches this year, but I think it's tougher for the rest of us because we don't win as much as they do, and recovering from defeats every week is a challenge," the world No. 11 said after winning Stockholm.
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Right or wrong, Ruud's point makes sense in at least some ways as it is not a secret that confidence is a real thing and that it is easier to play when you are constantly winning titles and doing well on the biggest stage.
