Barcelona Open 2024: Casper Ruud vs Jordan Thompson; Preview, Head-to-Head, Prediction

The Barcelona Open is now in the round of 16, and we will see the Monte-Carlo Masters finalist’s attempt to go into the finals. Casper Ruud will play against Jordan Thompson as both aim to enter the quarterfinal. Ruud has managed an impressive show on clay this year as he played till the semifinal in the Estoril Open and the final in Monte-Carlo, beating Novak Djokovic en route.

Thompson has not competed in many clay tournaments besides the ATP Houston. He was set to appear in Monaco but withdrew due to an unspecified leg injury. Now, he continues his stint in Barcelona.

Casper Ruud vs Jordan Thompson: Preview

Ruud faced Alexandre Muller in the round of 32, whom he defeated 6-3, 6-4. Ruud hit 3 aces with two double faults and landed 54% first serves. He won 73% of the points on the first serve and 50% of the points on the second serve. Ruud pushed Muller to 16 break points and managed to win 6 while giving away 3. To top it off, the Norwegian player won 5 games in a row, showing how he dominated, reducing the advantage Muller may have received from his serve.

Thompson played against Jaume Munar and won the match 6-4, 2-6, 6-4. He could not land any aces and hit one double fault. Thompson’s serve was below average as he only landed 56% of first serves while winning 62%. He won 57% of second serves, and both players won 3 break points each. Munar was the better player in many areas, as he won 44 receiving points, as opposed to Thompson’s 40. Munar also won 109 points as opposed to Thompson’s 103. The Aussie edged him out on more significant points and closed out the match.

Ruud vs Thompson: Head-to-Head

Casper Ruud and Jordan Thompson have played against each other four times on the ATP Tour. Currently, the two are tied 2-2, with Thompson winning one bout over Ruud in the National Bank Challenger.

• 2018 French Open round of 128: Ruud 6-1, 6-4, 2-6, 4-6, 6-3
• 2021 Australian Open round of 128: Ruud 6-2, 6-3, 2-1 RET
• 2021 Wimbledon round of 129: Thompson 7-6, 7-6, 2-6, 2-6, 6-2
• 2024 Los Cabos Open final: Thompson 6-3, 7-6

They have only played one match on clay, where Ruud was victorious. However, the clash was held 6 years ago, which does not carry much weight now. The two are tied, and their matches have always been close, with Thompson being the victor in the most recent clash, giving him a slight edge.

Prediction: Ruud to step into the quarterfinal

Thompson, currently, does not have much of a chance against Ruud on clay. Although he won their bout earlier this year, Ruud has become a different player on clay. His serve and dominance over other players in the last few weeks outmatch anything Thompson has been able to produce. The Norwegian player is also serving better, which can be a great weapon for him.

The Briton can be persistent, which can be a way for him to surpass Ruud in their clash. However, he does not have much else to speak for at the moment. Ruud will take revenge for his prior defeat and enter the final stages of the Barcelona Open.