Stefanos Tsitsipas: Third Monte-Carlo Masters crown 'even more special' than first or second ahead of French Open

Stefanos Tsitsipas has clinched the Monte-Carlo Masters title for the third time - and believes his latest triumph is "even more special" than the others.

The Greek star dropped just one set through the tournament, which culminated in a 6-1 6-4 win over Casper Ruud in Sunday's final. It marked the first time in six years that Tsitsipas defeated three top-10 players at a single event.

Ruud - who has now lost six of six finals across the ATP Masters 1000, ATP Finals and Grand Slams - was simply unable to cope with his opponent in a match that lasted 97 minutes.

Monaco was the setting for a Tsitsipas triumph for the third time in the last four years, as he kicked off the clay-court season and geared up for next month's French Open in perfect fashion.

The world No. 12 approached the tournament after a tough start to 2024, with an 11-6 record and his best performance being a semi-final at Los Cabos - an ATP 250 event in which he was eliminated by Ruud.

Reflecting on the victory, Tsitsipas said: "It has been very difficult, so to be back on the podiums, winning tournaments just feels amazing. I am extremely grateful for every person behind this journey.

"The trinity 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. I am extremely happy today.

"I had to go out there and show my tennis as I promised every single one of [my team] I will make the most out of it. I am glad I presented on court and showed some ruthless tennis.

"From the beginning to the end, my play was cohesive and I was able to blend in a lot of different shots."

Meanwhile, Ruud hailed his fellow 25-year-old: "I’d like to congratulate Stef for winning Monte Carlo once again. You love this tournament. Very, very well played all week.

"I know you fell out of [the] top 10 a few weeks ago but you’re back again where I think you belong. You’re a fantastic player and especially on clay and Monte Carlo. Congratulations to you and your team."

When the ATP rankings update on Monday, Tsitsipas is set to climb to world No. 7. His next outing will come this week, at the Barcelona Open.

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