By Tennis Now | @TennisNow | Thursday, February 20, 2025
Photo credit: Robert Prange/Getty
A surprising turn of events sees Jannik Sinner sidelined while Casper Ruud steps into the spotlight at the MGM Rewards Slam.
The World No. 1, Sinner, is currently amidst a three-month suspension related to WADA’s ongoing investigation into his doping allegations, prompting his withdrawal. In his place, Ruud will shine at the MGM Rewards Slam, scheduled for March 1-2, held at the Michelob ULTRA Arena located within the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas.
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This exciting event will see the 26-year-old Ruud, ranked No. 5 globally, compete alongside World No. 2 Alexander Zverev, and American stars Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul in a four-player round-robin showdown featuring 10-point tiebreakers. The top two competitors will clash in a Championship Tiebreak, competing for the esteemed men’s Lion’s Cup.
Ruud, a seasoned player with 12 ATP singles titles over a career spanning more than a decade, made history by rising to No. 2 in the world rankings in September 2022, marking Norway’s highest achievement in the sport. An admirer of Rafael Nadal during his formative years, Ruud faced his idol in the finals of the 2022 French Open, capturing the hearts of many despite the loss. With over $23 million in career earnings, he was also recognized with the prestigious 2022 Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award.
On Saturday’s marquee match, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka will take on former No. 1 Naomi Osaka for the highly sought-after Lion’s Cup. Sabalenka, a finalist at the recent Australian Open, has secured three Grand Slam titles, while Japan’s Osaka boasts an impressive four Grand Slam victories, including back-to-back titles at the 2018 U.S. Open and the 2019 Australian Open.
Also on Sunday, American sensation Reilly Opelka and France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard will compete in “The Ace Challenge Presented by Michelob ULTRA,” vying for the title of the game’s fastest serve.
Tickets are currently available via axs.com. Prices for single-day tickets start at $55, while two-day passes are priced at $127.50, not including any applicable service charges or fees.
