French Open final against Rafael Nadal earlier this year has helped him prepare for a high-stakes showdown against Carlos Alcaraz at Flushing Meadows.
Both finalists are aiming to clinch their first Grand Slam crowns and whoever wins will also emerge from the tournament as world No 1.
Alcaraz has taken the tough route to the US Open final with three consecutive five-set marathons against Marin Cilic, Jannik Sinner and Frances Tiafoe.
While Ruud may take encouragement from the fact that the teenage Spaniard has had to put in the hard yards, he will also have learned about Alcaraz's tremendous heart and stamina.
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