Holger Rune’s quest for success at the BNP Paribas Nordic Open took a distressing turn as he was forced to retire from his semi-final encounter against Ugo Humbert due to an apparent injury to his left leg. This setback marks yet another unfortunate chapter in Rune’s ongoing challenges with fitness.
The young Danish star had already been battling a thigh issue prior to the match, which he had heavily taped. His earlier efforts in the tournament had shown promise, and he looked in control when he led Humbert 6-2, 2-2 before disaster struck midway through the second set. With a noticeable limp, Rune made his way to his seat for medical evaluation but soon it became clear that he was unable to continue. Rune’s retirement handed the match to Humbert, who expressed his sympathy for his opponent, stating, “It was not the way I wanted to win. I’m super disappointed for Holger, and I wish him a speedy recovery.”
With this retirement, Rune’s position in the Live Race To Turin is now uncertain. Currently ranked 12th, his hopes of securing a spot in the ATP Finals next month have taken a hit due to this latest injury.
On the other hand, Ugo Humbert advanced to his tenth final, displaying impressive form indoors. He will face Casper Ruud, who dominated Denis Shapovalov with a straight-sets victory of 6-3, 6-4, concluding the match in a brisk 80 minutes. Ruud, currently sitting 11th in the Race, is looking to close the gap on eighth-ranked Lorenzo Musetti, whom he trails by 825 points. Notably, Ruud has been the most successful player indoors this season, securing ten victories on this surface.
The upcoming final promises to be a thrilling encounter as both players vie for crucial ranking points and a step closer to their aspirations for the ATP Finals.
