Holger Rune, the 21-year-old Danish tennis prodigy, has been forthcoming about the significant health challenges he’s faced in 2025, particularly infections that have derailed his season. In candid interviews and social media updates, Rune detailed how these health struggles, including a debilitating bout of influenza and its lingering effects, have tested his physical and mental resilience. His openness has struck a chord with fans, sparking supportive discussions on X about his determination to push through adversity.
Rune’s health battles came to light earlier this year when he withdrew from February’s Rotterdam Open due to influenza. In a Tennis.com interview, he described the infection as leaving him “extremely vulnerable,” with symptoms persisting for weeks, sapping his energy and forcing him to miss additional tournaments. The illness compounded existing injuries, including a wrist issue that plagued him through the clay season and a shoulder problem that disrupted his grass court campaign. These setbacks culminated in his withdrawal from the 2025 Olympics, a decision he called “heartbreaking” on Instagram. Rune later revealed that the influenza led to secondary infections, which required extended recovery and impacted his training, notably during the Indian Wells Masters, where he reached the final but lost emotionally to Jack Draper.
The physical toll of these infections has been evident in Rune’s 2025 performances. At the Italian Open, despite a thrilling third-round win over Corentin Moutet on May 12, 2025, Rune admitted in a press conference to feeling “far from 100%,” citing fatigue from his health struggles. He explained that the infections weakened his immune system, making it harder to maintain the intensity needed for grueling clay court matches. X posts from fans noted his visible exhaustion, with one user praising his “grit to keep fighting” despite looking “drained.”
Mentally, the infections have added to Rune’s challenges. He’s spoken about the frustration of battling his body while facing external pressures, including criticism of his on-court demeanor. In a UTS Grand Final interview, Rune reflected on learning to “manage setbacks,” emphasizing his commitment to recovery. His resilience shone through in Rome, where he upset Stefanos Tsitsipas, proving his potential despite health hurdles. Rune’s candidness about his infections underscores his maturity, inspiring fans who see him as a fighter with a bright future.
