Casper Ruud inspires next generation at Norwegian primary school

Casper Ruud shared cute scenes from his visit to Snarøya skole in Norway as he and girlfriend Maria visited his hometown primary school in hopes of inspiring the next generation.

Ruud has made history for Norway as a tennis star, peaking at No. 2 in the ATP rankings and reaching three Grand Slam finals, including one at Roland Garros earlier this year.

“I have so many great memories from my elementary school days,” wrote Ruud on Instagram. “I’m glad I got to visit the kids and teachers there and learn that their school motto and focus is to be a good friend, to everyone❤️I strongly support their vision🙌🏼”

The 24-year-old continued to bond with the Norwegian youth at a tennis clinic that featured an adorable autograph session.

“In Norway we have a very good community, we have an Olympic fitness centre that most of our athletes practise in and work out in,” Ruud said about the collective Norwegian sporting success.

“It’s a big part of the reason why a lot of Norwegians are doing well, it’s almost like we’re training together in a way even though we’re all doing separate sports and it’s really motivating.”

Though he finished 2023 ranked just outside the Top 10 at No. 11, the tenacious Norwegian will have myriad opportunities to climb back up the rankings in 2024—giving his young fans plenty to cheer for.