Rune Expresses Satisfaction with Composure in Crucial Moments

Holger Rune disrupted Carlos Alcaraz’s pursuit of a third Barcelona Open title by defeating the Spaniard 7-6(6), 6-2 in the final on Sunday. This victory marks Rune’s first title win in two years.

Alcaraz, who secured the tournament wins in both 2022 and 2023, appeared to be hampered by an injury during the match. Rune seized the opportunity, claiming his first trophy since the Bavarian Open in April 2023.

Rune’s triumph was earned through merit, having previously overcome second seed Casper Ruud in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Alcaraz has slipped to third in the ATP rankings, overtaken by Alexander Zverev, who clinched the Munich Open title earlier on Sunday.

“This win is incredibly significant to me; it was a fantastic match. Initially, I felt some pressure because Carlos was playing exceptional tennis. I needed to regulate my breathing and establish my rhythm,” Rune commented.

Alcaraz initiated the opening set assertively, showcasing powerful baseline returns and strategic drop shots that challenged Rune, allowing the Spaniard to secure a 3-2 lead.

However, Rune swiftly countered, leveling the score and then surging ahead 4-3, much to the surprise of the spectators at Spain’s oldest tennis club. Alcaraz faced the challenge of serving to remain in the set twice before ultimately pushing it to a tiebreak.

In the tiebreak, Alcaraz managed to fend off two set points. Rune then regained control, and the Danish player successfully converted his fifth set point when Alcaraz’s return landed beyond the baseline.

“After he broke my serve, I believe I became more engaged in the match and started playing my own game. The first set was intensely competitive,” Rune elaborated.

“I understand the disappointment of losing such a close first set, so winning it and gaining momentum was extremely vital. I am very proud of my performance.”

Carlos Alcaraz gained a 2-1 advantage in the second set before requesting a medical timeout, seemingly due to a problem with his thigh muscle or groin. Upon his return, Rune continued to dominate.

Rune demonstrated remarkable skill at the net, winning 12 out of 16 points, while Alcaraz’s unforced errors increased, leading to audible frustration from the local fans as Rune extended his lead to 5-2.

Ultimately, Holger Rune secured the title, with Alcaraz’s return hitting the net on championship point.

The Danish player disclosed that he had studied Novak Djokovic’s victory over Alcaraz in the Olympic final at Roland Garros.

“I considered adopting a similar strategy, focusing on extending the rallies and making him play numerous shots,” Rune stated.

“I am very pleased with my ability to maintain composure during critical moments. I also exhibited great courage when it mattered most.”