Holger Rune explains why he converted from a Rafael Nadal fan to a Roger Federer fan
Rune has also mentioned his desire to compete against the now-retired Federer
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Holger Rune has made his mark as one of the best among the new-gen players. The Dane showcased his potential at the 2022 Paris Masters, where he defeated World No.1 Novak Djokovic to clinch the championship. In a recent interview, Rune spoke about his childhood idols and his wish to play with Roger Federer.
The 19-year-old took the tennis world by storm after turning pro in 2020. He quickly moved up in the rankings, similar to his peer, Carlos Alcaraz. The World No.8 possesses three titles, out of which the Paris Masters 1000 is his personal best. In 2023, Rune reached the fourth round in Melbourne, Rotterdam, and Miami, and the semi-finals at the Mexico Open.
In the interview with Gio magazine, Rune spoke about his idols while growing up. He expressed his admiration for Rafael Nadal in his early childhood. Claiming he used to keep posters of the Spaniard all over his room. “Then I became Roger fan and later I was fan of many players,” Rune explained his transition.
Rune’s adulation for Federer has always been apparent. When asked on which retired player he would like to play, Rune unflinchingly replied with the Swiss maestro’s name. Federer retired last year after competing in his last tournament at the Laver Cup. Rune asserted that he would love to properly compete against him, after only practicing with the 41-year-old at the Nitto ATP Finals in 2019.
“He is the most elegant player I have ever seen on a tennis court so I think I would be very inspired by playing against him,” he claimed. Rune also mentioned other players as his inspirations, “I am fan of Verdasco“s forehand, Zverev’s backhand, Novak’s return, Rogers movements, Rafa’s fighter attitude, etc”
Also read: Holger Rune clarifies having no feud with Patrick Mouratoglou as they end their coaching association
Holger Rune and Clara Taauson reunite for the Hopman Cup
Danish stars Holger Rune and Clara Tauson will play together again at the Hopman Cup taking place in Nice this year. The tournament was dismissed in 2019 in favor of the ATP Cup. Now, the mixed-gender event will start again. Rune and Tauson will represent Denmark at the competition, scheduled to begin in July.
Rune and Tauson, in fact, go way back. The childhood friends used to play junior doubles together, and have won many junior doubles championships as a pair. Rune has shared his excitement for the event on social media as well. In recent news, Rune also parted ways with coach, Patrick Mouratoglou after a six-month partnership.
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Tanisha Mohanty
(172 Articles Published)