Did you feel that tremor at the US Open? Former finalist Casper Ruud just got served a shocking early exit by World No.107 Raphael Collignon! This five-set thriller left fans on the edge of their seats. How will this monumental upset impact the rest of the tournament and Ruud’s season?
The US Open 2024 witnessed a monumental upset as World No. 107 Raphael Collignon shocked former finalist Casper Ruud in a thrilling five-set encounter, marking one of the tournament’s most seismic early exits. This unexpected defeat sends ripples through the tennis world, as a rising star claims a significant scalp against a seasoned top player.
Collignon, a 23-year-old Belgian with American roots from Rochester, Minnesota, has been on a steady ascent in the professional tennis ranks, culminating in this career-defining victory. His journey reflects a diligent build, including reaching a maiden Challenger final in 2023, subsequently cracking the world’s top 250, and securing a coveted qualifying spot for Roland Garros for the first time in the same year.
The 2024 season further solidified Collignon’s burgeoning potential, as he demonstrated consistent improvement and a tenacious spirit. He claimed his first Challenger title at the Platzmann Open in Lüdenscheid, Germany, seeing off established Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp, and later secured a second Challenger title at the All In Open in Lyon. These successes propelled him inside the top 125 by season’s end, breaking into the top 100 in February.
His ATP Tour debut win earlier in February, defeating the now-retired Fabio Fognini, hinted at his burgeoning talent and readiness for higher-level competition. Under the tutelage of Steve Darcis, famously known for his upset of Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon in 2013, Collignon seems to have inherited a “giant-killing” gene, which was spectacularly on full display at the US Open.
After confidently dispatching Daniel Elahi Galan in the first round, Collignon faced a formidable challenge in Casper Ruud, a player with Grand Slam final experience. Despite losing the second and third sets, the young Belgian demonstrated remarkable resilience and strategic acumen, refusing to concede momentum and meticulously turning the tide of the match in his favor.
Collignon’s key strategy proved effective: he relentlessly sliced into Ruud’s forehand, forcing the Norwegian to move and creating openings which he then exploited with precision. This tactical masterclass allowed him to regain control, winning the fourth set 6-4 before edging through the decider 7-5. His post-match reaction encapsulated the moment: “I think it’s the best day of my life. Thank you,” a testament to the magnitude of his achievement.
For Casper Ruud, this early exit casts a significant shadow over his season, potentially jeopardizing his top-10 ranking. Following a strong showing in Madrid, injuries and a noticeable dip in form have plagued him, raising questions about his ability to consistently recapture his peak performance on hard court surfaces. This unexpected defeat against a relatively unknown opponent adds another “what could’ve been” moment for the former finalist, highlighting a recent vulnerability.
Raphael Collignon now advances to face Jiri Lehecka, the 20th seed, carrying immense momentum and newfound confidence into the next round. This monumental US Open upset firmly establishes him as a player to watch, a testament to his persistent climb, and a thrilling reminder of the unpredictable and captivating nature of Grand Slam tennis.
