Holger Rune reveals Novak Djokovic “inspires” him as the Serbian ‘finished tennis’ after claiming Olympic singles gold in Paris

Holger Rune has stated that 'inspirational' Novak Djokovic deserved to win the gold medal at the Paris Olympics.

Holger Rune reveals Novak Djokovic “inspires” him as the Serbian ‘finished tennis’ after claiming Olympic singles gold in Paris

Holger Rune and (inset) Novak Djokovic (via Imago)

World No. 17 Holger Rune has admitted that Novak Djokovic was an inspiration to him after the Serbian claimed the Olympic singles gold in Paris. The 21-year-old admired the Serbian’s all-around excellent performance against Carlos Alcaraz in the final of the Summer Games.

Before the Olympics, Djokovic had struggled with form and was without a title. He made three semifinal exits and his only final came at Wimbledon, where he lost to Alcaraz in straight sets. However, he was able to put those disappointments behind him at the Summer Games.

Djokovic won all four matches en route to the singles final without dropping a set. Against Alcaraz, he put on his best displays of the season beating the youngster 7-6(3), 7-6(2). Before the match, the 21-year-old had never lost a major event final, having won all the Grand Slam finals he had been to. He was left in tears following the defeat, while Djokovic celebrated with his family and friends.

The victory earned the World No. 2 the career Golden Slam (winning all four Majors and an Olympic singles gold) and he became the oldest player to achieve the feat. Rune stated that Djokovic inspired him and that he deserved to win gold.

If there is one person who deserves it, it’s Novak. He finished tennis, he takes it to another level. He is simply the best. He’s someone who inspires me a lot, as well as being a very nice person.
Holger Rune said (via welovetennis)

Djokovic and Rune have shared a good relationship on and off the court. They last met in the fourth round of Wimbledon, where the crowd booed Djokovic while cheering for Rune. The 24-time Major winner did not get distracted by it and went on to win the match in straight sets.

Holger Rune beats Roberto Bautista Agut to earn a place in the second round of the Canadian Open in Montreal

Holger Rune earned a spot in the second round of the Canadian Open after beating Roberto Bautista Agut 6-2, 3-6, 6-2. The Danish star was supposed to play Milos Raonic on the Center Court, but the Canadian withdrew 40 minutes before the match due to shoulder pain.

Holger Rune
Holger Rune (via X)

Spain’s Agut was called up to replace Raonic after just getting eliminated in the final qualifying round. The 37-year-old did his best to find his rhythm and took the match to a deciding set. However, Rune was quick to reassert his control and fired an array of impressive shots to seal the win.

Rune has been a shadow of himself since reaching the Brisbane International final in January. He has struggled with his game and has dropped from World No. 8 in January to World No. 17 currently. He will be hoping to get back to form in Montreal as he faces Pablo Carreno Busta in the second round.

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