Ruud booked his spot in Sunday’s showpiece with a 6-4 7-5 win over Francisco Cerundolo, despite struggling with a rib injury.
World number 15 required treatment three games into the opening set but still managed to save 15 of the 18 break points he faced.
“I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to finish the match, honestly. I felt something in my rib during the warm-up, just towards the end before going out [on court],” Ruud said.
“I felt it in nearly every shot, especially the serve. Luckily, I got some quick treatment on it. There’s not too much you can do. You only have three minutes [with the physio]. So I will go and check it out more now.”
Sunday’s final will be the first time Draper, who is set to climb into the top five in the world for the first time in his career next week, and Ruud have met in the professional ranks.
It will be Ruud’s 18th final on clay, with Novak Djokovic, the only active player to have reached more finals – 34 – on the surface.
The 26-year-old has won 11 titles on the red dirt, with his most recent success coming in May 2024 at the Geneva Open.
“Casper is a two-time Roland Garros finalist and very accustomed to the clay,” Draper said of his opponent.
“He is always tough to beat, so it will be a challenge for me – but I’m ready for it.”
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