Holger Rune faced a disappointing defeat at the 2024 Madrid Open and expressed dissatisfaction with his performance.
The Danish player’s clay season this year has not been as successful as the previous year. He has had a rough time on clay and in general, resulting in his drop out of the Top 10. His performance at the ATP Masters 1000 in Madrid did not go well either.
Tallon Griekspoor defeated him early in the event, showcasing his tough playing style. While Rune’s loss was unexpected, it was not the most shocking upset in the tournament.
Griekspoor’s strong serve posed a challenge for Rune, who struggled to find a solution. In an interview with Danish TV2 after the match, the 20-year-old expressed his frustration with the loss and his recent lack of top-level performance.
It is of course frustrating when I can’t find my game at all. I can’t lie about that. It is very clear that I have not played optimally, so I have to get back on track. Congratulations to Tallon – he played a good game and was better at the important moments. I played well below my level and I need to step up.
Rune is taking a break and returning to Denmark, where he will celebrate his 21st birthday with family. He hopes to rediscover his top form, with the Italian Open in Rome as his first event as a 21-year-old.
“I am going back to Denmark and celebrate (his birthday) with the family. The plan was, of course, to be here (in Madrid), but that’s how it is. I have to go back and have a good time with the family. Then hopefully I can play better tennis when I turn 21.”
