(© Geoff Burke-Imagn Images)
Holger Rune, the highest ranked Danish player on the tour, absolutely demolished Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz, in straight sets 7-6, 6-2 at the Barcelona Open. Rune has been in red-hot form all week, playing with a new-found determination. This victory over Carlos Alcaraz comes at the perfect time for Rune, as the French grand slam looms closer.
With this victory Rune breaks into the top 10 of the ATP rankings. Carlos was the favorite coming into this match, having been undefeated in Barcelona since 2021. However, Rune had other ideas.
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As if being crushed by the Danish youngster wasn’t enough, the major concern right now for Carlos Alcaraz’s fans, is his mid-match medical timeout. The Spanish star had a lengthy treatment in the beginning of the second set, and indicated an issue with his hip/adductor area.
Holger Rune later in his post-match interview said that he went into the match, as if it was the ‘Olympic final’. This powerful run by Holger Rune in Barcelona makes things interesting now for the French Open.
Holger Rune got teary, as he addressed the crowd during the presentation ceremony. This just goes to show how hard he has been working behind the curtains and how much this victory means to him.
With Alexander Zverev’s victory in Germany, Jannik Sinner’s much anticipated return since his doping ban, and Novak Djokovic looking shaky, the next few weeks become important in terms of titles and injury updates. The players will now head to the high-altitudes of Madrid as they gear up for the prestigious Masters 1000 trophy.
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Carlos Alcaraz meanwhile seemed optimistic, when he was asked about his injury in his post match press conference.
“I’ve noticed some discomfort in my right psoas, and when you feel a little pain, alarm bells go off and you’re taken out of the match. I’ve struggled to keep going and maintain a good level. From what I’m feeling right now, I’ll be off for two days. I’m confident it won’t hurt me ahead of Madrid”, said Carlos Alcaraz
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