Holger Rune Withdraws from Rio Open Due to Illness, Focuses on Acapulco Return
Holger Rune’s challenging start to the season continued as he was forced to withdraw from the Rio Open, citing health concerns. The Dane had struggled for form in recent weeks, winning just one of his last three matches on the ATP Tour.
Rune’s post-Australian Open schedule saw him involved in a controversial Davis Cup tie, followed by appearances in Rotterdam and Buenos Aires. However, his first-round loss to Mariano Navone at the Argentina Open raised concerns about his fitness.
Rune Addresses Health Struggles After Buenos Aires Exit
Following his back-to-back losses in Rotterdam and Buenos Aires, Rune pulled out of the Rio Open and took to social media to explain his struggles.
“Looking back, I think it was too early to play after my influenza last week,” Rune shared on X (formerly Twitter).
“My shoulder was not working, and the whole body seemed extremely vulnerable. I will take the time and get proper rest now. When the body is not there, the brain shuts down, and I am just very sorry I couldn’t deliver what I wanted on court today. Sorry, Argentina.”
With Rune stepping away from competition to fully recover, the 21-year-old has now provided an encouraging update to his fans.
“First day since Rotterdam I wake up and my body feels almost normal again,” Rune announced. “Happy I took the time to rest and recover. Now practice before @AbiertoTelcel.”
Rune Set for Acapulco Return in Strong ATP 500 Field
With his health improving, Rune is now preparing for his return at the ATP 500 event in Acapulco, which kicks off on February 24. The Dane will be the fifth seed as he competes in the Mexican Open for the third consecutive year.
Rune has enjoyed solid runs in Acapulco over the past two years, reaching the semi-finals in both 2023 and 2024 before losing to Casper Ruud and Alex de Minaur, respectively.
This year’s Acapulco field features a strong lineup, with world No. 2 Alexander Zverev leading the draw. He will be joined by several top-ranked players, including:
Top Seeds for the 2024 Mexican Open:
| Seed | Player |
|---|---|
| 1 | Alexander Zverev |
| 2 | Taylor Fritz |
| 3 | Casper Ruud |
| 4 | Tommy Paul |
| 5 | Holger Rune |
| 6 | Ben Shelton |
| 7 | Lorenzo Musetti |
| 8 | Frances Tiafoe |
With defending champion Alex de Minaur absent, last year’s runner-up Casper Ruud will be among the contenders for the title. Additionally, Dallas Open champion Denis Shapovalov will make his first ATP appearance since winning the biggest title of his career.
The main draw of the Mexican Open begins on Monday, February 24, with Rune looking to regain form and confidence ahead of the Indian Wells Masters in March.
