Alexander Blockx advanced to the semi-finals of the Mutua Madrid Open after defeating defending champion Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-4 on Thursday. The 21-year-old Belgian from Antwerp delivered what Tennis Majors described as his most complete performance of the week, dominating from the opening game.
Blockx's run to the semi-finals represents a significant breakthrough for Belgian tennis. The teenager has now defeated three consecutive top-20 opponents at the Madrid Masters, a feat that underscores his emergence as a rising force on the ATP circuit. His victory over the Norwegian Ruud, who was the tournament's top seed, marks a notable scalp for the young Belgian.
The semi-final berth comes at a critical juncture in the ATP calendar, with Madrid serving as one of the tour's premier Masters 1000 events. Blockx's performance suggests he has the tools to compete at the highest level, even against established champions.