Casper Ruud Pulls Out of Nitto ATP Finals Due to Injury

Nitto ATP Finals Setback for Casper Ruud

Casper Ruud was forced to withdraw from the Nitto ATP Finals due to an ankle injury, dealing a blow to the Norwegian's hopes of ending the year on a high. The world No. 4 was set to make his debut at the season-ending tournament in Turin, Italy, but a setback in training has ruled him out.

Ruud has been struggling with an ankle problem since the Rolex Paris Masters, where he was forced to retire from his semi-final clash against Novak Djokovic. He had hoped to recover in time for the Nitto ATP Finals, but the injury has not healed sufficiently.

The 23-year-old is replaced in the field by American Taylor Fritz, who is making his second appearance at the Nitto ATP Finals. Fritz enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2022, winning four ATP Tour titles and reaching the semi-finals of the Wimbledon Championships.

Ruud's Farewell to Turin

Ruud expressed his disappointment at having to withdraw from the Nitto ATP Finals, saying that it was a "tough decision" but ultimately the right one for his long-term health.

"It's obviously a big disappointment to have to withdraw from the Nitto ATP Finals," Ruud said. "I've been looking forward to playing in Turin for the first time, but I've been struggling with an ankle injury since Paris and it's not healed enough to compete at the level I need to."

"I'm going to take some time to rest and recover, and I'm hoping to be back on court as soon as possible. I wish all the players the best of luck in Turin."

Alexander Zverev Replaces Injured Dominic Thiem

Ruud's withdrawal is the second injury-related blow to the Nitto ATP Finals field, after Dominic Thiem pulled out due to a wrist injury.

Thiem was replaced in the field by Alexander Zverev, who is making his third appearance at the Nitto ATP Finals. The German star has won two ATP Tour titles in 2022 and is currently ranked No. 7 in the world.

The Nitto ATP Finals will be held in Turin, Italy, from November 13-20. The tournament features the top eight singles players and doubles teams in the world, competing for the biggest prize money in tennis.