Norway’s Casper Ruud says he might leave the Australian Open early if his wife, Maria, goes into labour with their first child, a daughter.
The 12th seed won his first-round match against Italy’s Mattia Bellucci 6-1 6-2 6-4 on Monday.
Ruud said he is grateful to Maria for letting him compete while she rests at home and that he keeps his phone on at all times in case she goes into labour. “There’s more to life than just tennis,” he added.
Ruud, who is coached by his father Christian, said becoming a father gives him someone extra to play for. He hopes to travel with Maria and their baby to future tournaments.
He will face Spain’s Jaume Munar in the second round on Wednesday.
